There seems to be a new order in world cricket. England and Australia take pride in their relationship going back to 131 years but the age-old friendship seems to be breaching.
Expresses its anguish over the ‘treatment’ meted out to it by the Champions League organisers
MUMBAI: There seems to be a new order in world cricket. England and Australia take pride in their relationship going back to 131 years but the age-old friendship seems to be breaching after a recent letter of the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
Australia and South Africa, the Indian board’s partners in the Champions League, are upset with the objection raised by the the English board over a host of issues relating to the Champions League. But it seems the English Board is in no mood slow down. On Saturday, it upped the ante.
Calling DNA from London, a top official of the English board launched a scathing attack on the BCCI or rather what he called the organisers of the Champions League. What is more, he did not give guarantee if Middlesex would take part in the September 29-Oct 8 tournament.
Using strong words, the ECB official, asking not to be named, said; “It was gross discourtesy on the part of the Champions League organisers. They did not follow any international protocol in their invitation to us. The ECB was never so badly treated.” He then continued his broadside: “Middlesex will take part in the League only if the tournament is authorised.” He did not elaborate, but said: “You should ask the International Cricket Council.” Clearly, he was hinting at the objections raised by the ICC.
The BCCI and the Champions League officials could not be reached for comment but a source in the Indian board told DNA that Lalit Modi & Co are preparing an equally scathing reply. “It’s not just the BCCI but Cricket Australia and South Africa are now united against the English Board. They are also very upset and unhappy with the behaviour of the ECB. They are preparing a strongly-worded reply. Not just Modi but also James Sutherland of CA and Gerard Majola of SA will be signatory to the letter.” The BCCI sources say they have a plan ready if English board doesn’t allow Middlesex to travel to India.
The ECB has called a high-level meeting on Monday to take a call.
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