The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) has sent out a strong message to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Indian Premier League (IPL) and the DY Patil Stadium management after being denied passes for the matches. Even as the IPL was unveiling its third edition, the MCA took a decision to boycott the championship unless they are taken on board in matters relating to IPL matches in Mumbai.
At its managing committee meeting, the MCA decided to send a showcause notice to the DY Patil club asking why its affiliation to the association should not be cancelled. The MCA felt that the stadium management should have consulted its parent body before signing up an agreement with the IPL and the Deccan Chargers. DY Patil is to host four more IPL matches — two Chargers home games, the third place play-off and the final on April 25.
The MCA also decided to write to the BCCI to make it mandatory that the association is kept in the loop about any matches hosted in the city. “The IPL is a BCCI tournament and we have a right to be part of its activities in Mumbai. We should be taken on board,” an MCA member told DNA. “We’re answerable to so many cricketers in Mumbai. The previous practice of issuing 20 per cent passes to the association should be continued.
MCA president Sharad Pawar was not present at the meeting but members said the former BCCI president is aware of the decision. Pawar and MCA officials did not attend the opening ceremony. Pawar, the IPL officials and the DY Patil management officials could not be reached for comment.
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