The legendary wicketkeeper said the whole controversy has affected the brand image of the league.
Former Australia cricketer and Deccan Chargers captain Adam Gilchrist said he believes there is still scope for a compromise between the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the franchisees of scrapped Indian Premier League teams Rajasthan Royals and Kings XI Punjab.
The legendary wicketkeeper, who was in the city for a promotional event connected with Australia’s Wollongong University, said the whole controversy has affected the brand image of the league.
“It does have an impact on the brand and the overall competition in general. No doubt, it came as a surprise.
“I hope there is still scope for discussion between the franchises and the BCCI. Hopefully, they will stay in the competition,” Gilchrist told mediapersons.
“There is a need to maintain value and integrity, which has been so successful for the venture. There have been some negatives. If people sit down there’s an opportunity for everyone — business, players and spectators — as long as none of them get greedy,” he said. “Hopefully, there is still a way for a compromise,” Gilchrist added.
According to the hard-hitting southpaw who has led DC for the past two years, the move would create insecurity among other franchises.
“There will be a ripple effect. I read with interest comments of a few other franchise owners regarding this issue. It does create a feeling of insecurity. It just needs to be well managed, well administered. There is an interest on what exactly happened,” Gilchrist added.
Gilly, as he is fondly called, also lauded Sachin Tendulkar for his efforts in the ongoing second Test in Bangalore.
“His hunger is amazing. He has continued to play and play at the highest level. The quality of a champion is longevity and he has done it in a cricket-crazy nation. Who knows what’s left for him to achieve? Chasing that elusive 300 may keep him going for a few more years,” he said.
Gilchrist also heaped praised on VVS Laxman. “Laxman’s standout feature is that he has won Test matches (for his team) against us. Whenever there is a match to be won, he has gone out and won that even from losing positions.”
So who’s Australia’s biggest nemesis: Tendulkar or Laxman?
“Few more names should be included. Virender (Sehwag) has done damage on a few occasions. (I am) surprised Rahul’s (Dravid) name didn’t crop up. All of their of the players in the core batting order have damaged us.”
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