Kochi in trouble: BCCI can’t deal with ‘multiple’ owners

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is faced with a headache from the Kochi franchise.

The new team in the Indian Premier League (IPL), which was has been in controversy since it surprisingly bought the franchise in March this year, is facing serious internal wrangling.

At least three letters, written by different stakeholders of the franchise, have gone to the BCCI with various claims. One particular group is believed to have written to the Board claiming that it wants to do away with the sweat equity given to certain members. Another group has also written making somewhat similar claims and has introduced an MP from Gujarat as its chief executive officer.

“They haven’t incorporated a company. They are five members of the consortium with regards to shares, sweat equity and other things. They are not able to resolve those issues. Both groups have sent us letters saying not to recognise the other. Therefore in such a scenario, the Board cannot work with the franchise. We cannot deal with two groups of individuals,” said BCCI president Shashank Manohar.

The Board has given them 10 days to settle their disputes and form a company, but insiders say the irregularities are so many that the team stands the danger of being scrapped.

“Kochi is one of the two teams where irregularities are aplenty. If the Board decides go back to eight teams, then Kochi could be in danger,” said a BCCI source.

A Team Kochi official, however, said the mess will be sorted out. “This notice could be a blessing in disguise as all of them can sit down and sort out the differences.” He, however, said the members are yet to receive the notice.

A Rajasthan Royals official also came up with a similar response, saying the franchise will react after receiving the show-cause notice. No official from Kings XI Punjab official — who have also been served a notice — could not be reached for comment.

A final decision on this matter could be taken before the end of October as the player auction will be held in November.

Meanwhile, sources have revealed that MAK Pataudi is not too keen to continue in the IPL governing council. There was no official confirmation but it is believed the former India captain may refuse to be part of the council.

On Wednesday, the Board decided not to make any payments to the former players in the council. Pataudi is likely to speak to Manohar on Thursday. The BCCI president said he was unable to reach Pataudi.

Another former India skipper made an entry into the BCCI set-up. Dilip Vengsarkar, also a former chief selector, was made chairman of the cricket development committee. Pranab Roy, Prashant Vaidya, Chetan Chauhan and Arshad Ayub are his co-members. The brief for this panel will be known next week.