Reduced to being spectators in the last three months with the cricket board busy sorting out the Indian Premier League (IPL) mess that followed Lalit Modi’s suspension, the franchise owners finally got an opportunity to put forth their views on Thursday.
In their first meeting with the BCCI’s top brass without the suspended IPL chairman in Mumbai, the franchisees demanded, among other things, that the IPL increase the salary cap available to them in the players’ auction later this year, and that the current format of the tournament is not tinkered with.
With the addition of two new teams — Pune and Kochi — from the next season, the 60-game event will become a 94-game one.
The board had initially planned to reduce the number of games by splitting the teams into two groups, with a total of 68 matches. But most of the franchisees say they want the existing format of home and away games to be retained.
“The franchisees are of the view that the current format should be retained, with one home game and one away,” Royal Challengers Bangalore owner Vijay Mallya said after the meeting, which was attended by BCCI president, Mr Shashank Manohar and IPL interim chief Chirayu Amin.
“There were suggestions to restrict the schedule to 10 matches (per franchise). But our view is that we would like the earlier format to continue... Our revenues will take a hit if the number of games are decreased,” he added.
The owners also suggested that all players should go into the auction pool (no player is retained), and that the salary cap be raised to $9 million from $7 million.
Showing posts with label IPL. Show all posts
Showing posts with label IPL. Show all posts
Friday, June 25, 2010
Monday, May 10, 2010
Modi seeks deadline extension
Suspended Indian Premier League (IPL) Commissioner Lalit Modi is expected to seek an extension of the deadline given to him by the cricket board to file his replies to the BCCI chargesheet.
"He has asked for some documents from the BCCI to file his replies but has not got them yet. So he is likely to seek an extension today from the BCCI pending the receipt of the said documents," said sources close to him.
With the deadline for filing the reply ending today, it is not known whether BCCI will accede to his requests if and when it is received.
Modi was suspended on April 26, soon after the conclusion of the IPL final in Navi Mumbai by BCCI which sent him a showcause notice asking him to reply to a slew of charges relating to the conduct of the high-profile Twenty20 league.
Modi was alleged to have indulged in murky financial deals without the knowledge of the IPL Governing Council, bid-rigging and of behavioural pattern which was not acceptable.
"He has asked for some documents from the BCCI to file his replies but has not got them yet. So he is likely to seek an extension today from the BCCI pending the receipt of the said documents," said sources close to him.
With the deadline for filing the reply ending today, it is not known whether BCCI will accede to his requests if and when it is received.
Modi was suspended on April 26, soon after the conclusion of the IPL final in Navi Mumbai by BCCI which sent him a showcause notice asking him to reply to a slew of charges relating to the conduct of the high-profile Twenty20 league.
Modi was alleged to have indulged in murky financial deals without the knowledge of the IPL Governing Council, bid-rigging and of behavioural pattern which was not acceptable.
Monday, April 26, 2010
IPL Governing Council meeting starts
The crucial IPL Governing Council meeting began here on Monday, barely hours after the BCCI suspended Lalit Modi as the Chairman and Commissioner of the high-profile Twenty20 event.
BCCI president Shashank Manohar, vice-President Arun Jaitley, secretary N Srinivasan, media and finance committee chairman Rajiv Shukla and IPL vice-chairman Niranjan Shah were among the members of the council present at the Board headquarters here.
Mr. Modi was to chair the meeting before he was suspended and issued a show cause notice for alleged financial irregularities late last night. Mr. Modi has been asked to explain within 15 days why disciplinary action should not be taken against him for what the BCCI described as ‘individual misdemeanors’
“While we rejoice and celebrate the great success of IPL Season 3, the alleged acts of individual misdemeanors of Mr Lalit K Modi, Chairman IPL and Vice President BCCI have brought a bad name to the administration of Cricket and the game itself,” Mr. Manohar said in a press release which announced Mr. Modi’s suspension from the Board, IPL, the Working Committee and any other committee.
Due to this, Mr. Modi cannot participate in today’s meeting that will go into the alleged financial wrong-doings in the IPL and how to set right things.
The IPL Governing Council also includes Punjab Cricket Association chief I S Bindra, BCCI treasurer M P Pandove, vice-President Chirayu Amin, joint secretary Sanjay Jagdale, J&K Cricket Association chief Farooq Abdullah and former India captains Ravi Shastri, Sunil Gavaskar and Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi.
BCCI president Shashank Manohar, vice-President Arun Jaitley, secretary N Srinivasan, media and finance committee chairman Rajiv Shukla and IPL vice-chairman Niranjan Shah were among the members of the council present at the Board headquarters here.
Mr. Modi was to chair the meeting before he was suspended and issued a show cause notice for alleged financial irregularities late last night. Mr. Modi has been asked to explain within 15 days why disciplinary action should not be taken against him for what the BCCI described as ‘individual misdemeanors’
“While we rejoice and celebrate the great success of IPL Season 3, the alleged acts of individual misdemeanors of Mr Lalit K Modi, Chairman IPL and Vice President BCCI have brought a bad name to the administration of Cricket and the game itself,” Mr. Manohar said in a press release which announced Mr. Modi’s suspension from the Board, IPL, the Working Committee and any other committee.
Due to this, Mr. Modi cannot participate in today’s meeting that will go into the alleged financial wrong-doings in the IPL and how to set right things.
The IPL Governing Council also includes Punjab Cricket Association chief I S Bindra, BCCI treasurer M P Pandove, vice-President Chirayu Amin, joint secretary Sanjay Jagdale, J&K Cricket Association chief Farooq Abdullah and former India captains Ravi Shastri, Sunil Gavaskar and Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi.
Final after the final: Modi suspended
The IPL commissioner, Mr Lalit Modi, was suspended minutes after the award presentation ceremony of IPL-3 here past midnight on Sunday.
He was issued a show-cause notice capping two weeks of raging controversy over financial wrongdoings in the hugely popular tournament.
Mr Modi was combative to the last, saying at his speech at the presentation ceremony that the IPL was clean, that all decisions were cleared by the governing council and that he took full responsibility for all the decisions.
“In the last few days, we have had a lot of innuendoes, and half truths and motivated leaks (about IPL). I want to tell you that all decisions have been taken by the Governing Council and approved by the general body,” Mr Modi said at the ceremony.
“I reassure you that if there is any flouting of rules and any irregularities I shall take full responsibility. On this occasion, I assure milllions of passionate fans of the league and the game across the globe that the IPL is clean and transparent.”
Earlier, Mr Modi had decided to take the bull by the horns. Having all along opposed Monday’s emergent meeting of the IPL council — called essentially to terminate his tenure as its chairman — Mr Modi, in a dramatic turnaround, said he would chair the meeting scheduled to be held here at 10 am on Monday.
On Sunday, the top brass of the BCCI met to finalise their approach for the meeting. According to sources, Mr Srinivasan shared a 16-page-long “chargesheet” with president Shahshank Manohar, IPL vice-chairman Niranjan Shah and chief administrative officer Prof. Ratnakar Shetty that lists in great detail all the allegations against Mr Modi.
“Mr Srinivasan has ensured that no important matter escapes the IPL meeting. He’s listed every contentious decision taken by Modi in pointwise manner in his report. That doesn’t give him (Modi) much room to manevoure if he shows up tomorrow,” a board official told this newspaper.
When Mr Srinivasan first circulated a notice for the meeting, Mr Modi called it illegal, saying as chairman only he had the powers to do so and dared the council to go ahead.
A meeting on Saturday between Mr Pawar and Mr Vijay Mallya, chairman of United Breweries and owner of Royal Challenger Bangalore, assumed significance in the face of the Modi-BCCI standoff though they denied it had anything to do with the IPL.
He was issued a show-cause notice capping two weeks of raging controversy over financial wrongdoings in the hugely popular tournament.
Mr Modi was combative to the last, saying at his speech at the presentation ceremony that the IPL was clean, that all decisions were cleared by the governing council and that he took full responsibility for all the decisions.
“In the last few days, we have had a lot of innuendoes, and half truths and motivated leaks (about IPL). I want to tell you that all decisions have been taken by the Governing Council and approved by the general body,” Mr Modi said at the ceremony.
“I reassure you that if there is any flouting of rules and any irregularities I shall take full responsibility. On this occasion, I assure milllions of passionate fans of the league and the game across the globe that the IPL is clean and transparent.”
Earlier, Mr Modi had decided to take the bull by the horns. Having all along opposed Monday’s emergent meeting of the IPL council — called essentially to terminate his tenure as its chairman — Mr Modi, in a dramatic turnaround, said he would chair the meeting scheduled to be held here at 10 am on Monday.
On Sunday, the top brass of the BCCI met to finalise their approach for the meeting. According to sources, Mr Srinivasan shared a 16-page-long “chargesheet” with president Shahshank Manohar, IPL vice-chairman Niranjan Shah and chief administrative officer Prof. Ratnakar Shetty that lists in great detail all the allegations against Mr Modi.
“Mr Srinivasan has ensured that no important matter escapes the IPL meeting. He’s listed every contentious decision taken by Modi in pointwise manner in his report. That doesn’t give him (Modi) much room to manevoure if he shows up tomorrow,” a board official told this newspaper.
When Mr Srinivasan first circulated a notice for the meeting, Mr Modi called it illegal, saying as chairman only he had the powers to do so and dared the council to go ahead.
A meeting on Saturday between Mr Pawar and Mr Vijay Mallya, chairman of United Breweries and owner of Royal Challenger Bangalore, assumed significance in the face of the Modi-BCCI standoff though they denied it had anything to do with the IPL.
Friday, April 23, 2010
BCCI firm on its stand, Modi may move court
With Mr Lalit Modi’s future as the IPL’s top man effectively hinging on the league’s governing council meeting in Mumbai on April 26, the BCCI is doing all it can to keep the road leading up to it as controversy-free as possible.
After Mr Modi sent an email to the board president, Mr Shashank Manohar, questioning the legality of Monday’s meeting, calling it unauthorised, the latter made it clear that he would go ahead with the meeting as per schedule.
“It is his viewpoint, everybody is entitled to their viewpoint,” Mr Manohar said, rebutting the IPL commissioner’s contention that as chairman of the governing council only Mr Modi had the authority to summon members.
The IPL chief though, isn’t backing down, and is considering moving the Bombay High Court. Senior lawyers Mr Ram Jethmalani and Mr Harish Salve are expected to appear for Mr Modi to seek an injunction against the April 26 meet.
The meeting had been convened by the BCCI secretary and Chennai Super Kings owner, Mr N. Srinivasan after Mr Modi’s disclosure of the Kochi franchise shareholding pattern snowballed into a scandal. The plan is to ask Mr Modi to resign at the meeting but Mr Modi claimed that as Mr Srinivasan was himself a team owner he was not authorised to convene the meeting.
Mr Manohar, however, sought to clarify that there was no conflict of interest as far as Mr Srinivasan was concerned. “It is not a question of owner. He (Srinivasan) is not calling the meeting as an owner of the team, and
in the board’s constitution the secretary is the convenor of all meetings. He enjoys full rights,” Mr Manohar said.
After Mr Modi sent an email to the board president, Mr Shashank Manohar, questioning the legality of Monday’s meeting, calling it unauthorised, the latter made it clear that he would go ahead with the meeting as per schedule.
“It is his viewpoint, everybody is entitled to their viewpoint,” Mr Manohar said, rebutting the IPL commissioner’s contention that as chairman of the governing council only Mr Modi had the authority to summon members.
The IPL chief though, isn’t backing down, and is considering moving the Bombay High Court. Senior lawyers Mr Ram Jethmalani and Mr Harish Salve are expected to appear for Mr Modi to seek an injunction against the April 26 meet.
The meeting had been convened by the BCCI secretary and Chennai Super Kings owner, Mr N. Srinivasan after Mr Modi’s disclosure of the Kochi franchise shareholding pattern snowballed into a scandal. The plan is to ask Mr Modi to resign at the meeting but Mr Modi claimed that as Mr Srinivasan was himself a team owner he was not authorised to convene the meeting.
Mr Manohar, however, sought to clarify that there was no conflict of interest as far as Mr Srinivasan was concerned. “It is not a question of owner. He (Srinivasan) is not calling the meeting as an owner of the team, and
in the board’s constitution the secretary is the convenor of all meetings. He enjoys full rights,” Mr Manohar said.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Mumbai Indians storms into the final
Mumbai Indians stormed into the final of the DLF-IPL III defeating Royal Challengers Bangalore by 35 runs at the D.Y. Patil Stadium here on Wednesday.
Ross Taylor (31 not out, 30 balls) staged a lone battle as the visitor, chasing 185 for a place in the final, crumbled to 149 for nine in 20 overs. Kieron Pollard was adjudged the Man-of-the-Match.
Sachin Tendulkar was absent owing to injury to fingers from the fourth over onwards in RCB's innings.
Zaheer Khan stepped in to fill the breach. The skipper walked out at the finish to greet each teammate with a bear hug.
Rayudu's efficiency behind the stumps, three wickets by Kieron Pollard apart from a run-out, timely strikes by Harbhajan and J.P. Duminy's well-judged catch on the ropes were the highlights of Mumbai Indians's work on the field. A berth in the Champions League is the first reward.
RCB's batting response was entrusted to Dravid the opener, orthodox yet effective in using the pace generated by Zaheer Khan. He had the presence of mind to wait for the umpire's verdict when Tendulkar celebrated a catch at first slip. The Mumbai Indians captain walked off for treatment on injured fingers as the television umpire negated the catch.
Harbhajan's knack of making things happen, complemented by Rayudu's reflexes behind the stumps, resulted in Pietersen's exit. The off-spinner saw the batsman stepping out, bowled down the leg-side and the wicket-keeper finished the task with a flourish, diving sideways to take the bails off.
Uthappa left after a short burst, sweeping sixes off Harbhajan. Mumbai Indians appeared to have turned the tide when a fine piece of fielding by Pollard ran out Dravid (23 runs, 22 balls), collecting a throw from R. Sathish and flinging his body forward to effect a diving run-out, leaving RCB still to get a grip on the chase at the half-way mark (83 for two in 10 overs). Rayudu then latched on to an edge by Kohli.
Rayudu and Saurabh Tiwary, busy as bees earlier at the crease, put on 67 runs off 49 balls in a fifth-wicket stand when the RCB bowlers were on top.
Rayudu started with an imperious drive over the bowler's head, then scored 40 off 38 balls creating the launchpad for the big-hitters to follow. Tiwary cleared the ball with huge swings, using the bat like a sledgehammer for four sixes.
Mumbai Indians scored 184 for five thanks to a five-over blast from Tiwary and some clean-hitting by Pollard (33 not out off 13 balls). The West Indian smashed three sixes.
Mumbai Indians got a reality check about life without Tendulkar. The captain stretched outside the offstump to drive a Dale Steyn ball swinging away, scooped towards cover for Taylor to stun the home crowd into silence with a low, rolling catch. Kohli's sharp reaction cut short Shikhar Dhawan's short stint as five overs resulted in 39 runs and loss of both the openers.
Duminy's apprehensions against spin came true, startled by bounce from Kumble, angled across the left-hander. Pietersen kept plugging away at the other end, bowling flat and denying the batsmen pace off the track. Rayudu and Tiwary were patient, working the ball around for singles to rotate strike.
Tendulkar opted to bat after winning the toss, but Mumbai Indians gained momentum in the 14th over bowled by Kohli.
Tiwary cleared mid-wicket with a huge swing across for the first six as the home team crossed the 100-run milestone. He stepped out for his second six, a huge swing over long-on off Kallis in the 16th over.
The scores:
Mumbai Indians: S. Dhawan (run out) 12 (9b, 2x4), S. Tendulkar c Taylor b Steyn 9 (9b, 2x4), A. Nayar c Praveen b Pietersen 22 (18b, 2x4), A. Rayudu c Kallis b Steyn 40 (38b, 4x4), J-P. Duminy c Pietersen b Kumble 3 (4b), S. Tiwary (not out) 52 (31b, 3x4, 4x6), K. Pollard (not out) 33 (13b, 1x4, 3x6), Extras (lb-2, nb-2, w-9) 13; Total (for five wickets in 20 overs) 184.
Fall of wickets: 1-11, 2-29, 3-68, 4-77, 5-144.
Royal Challengers Bangalore bowling: Praveen 3-0-29-0, Steyn 4-0-43-2, Vinay 2-0-25-0, Kallis 2-0-25-0, Kumble 4-0-30-1, Pietersen 4-0-20-1, Kohli 1-0-10-0.
Royal Challengers Bangalore: J. Kallis c Rayudu b Malinga 11 (9b, 2x4), R. Dravid (run out) 23 (22b, 3x4), K. Pietersen st. Rayudu b Harbhajan 19 (14b, 2x4), R. Uthappa c Dhawan b Pollard 26 (13b, 2x4, 2x6), R. Taylor (not out) 31 (30b, 1x4, 1x6), V. Kohli c Rayudu b Pollard 9 (7b, 1x4), M. Pandey c Duminy b Pollard 5 (9b), Praveen b Harbhajan 1 (2b), Vinay b Malinga 8 (8b), D. Steyn b Fernando 5 (5b, 1x4), A. Kumble (not out) 1 (2b), Extras (nb-1, w-7, lb-2) 10; Total (for nine wickets in 20 overs) 149.
Fall of wickets: 1-24, 2-47, 3-81, 4-81, 5-97, 6-108, 7-118, 8-134, 9-146.
Mumbai Indians bowling: Zaheer 4-0-34-0, Fernando 4-0-28-1, Malinga 4-0-24-2, Harbhajan 4-0-44-2, Pollard 4-0-17-3.
Ross Taylor (31 not out, 30 balls) staged a lone battle as the visitor, chasing 185 for a place in the final, crumbled to 149 for nine in 20 overs. Kieron Pollard was adjudged the Man-of-the-Match.
Sachin Tendulkar was absent owing to injury to fingers from the fourth over onwards in RCB's innings.
Zaheer Khan stepped in to fill the breach. The skipper walked out at the finish to greet each teammate with a bear hug.
Rayudu's efficiency behind the stumps, three wickets by Kieron Pollard apart from a run-out, timely strikes by Harbhajan and J.P. Duminy's well-judged catch on the ropes were the highlights of Mumbai Indians's work on the field. A berth in the Champions League is the first reward.
RCB's batting response was entrusted to Dravid the opener, orthodox yet effective in using the pace generated by Zaheer Khan. He had the presence of mind to wait for the umpire's verdict when Tendulkar celebrated a catch at first slip. The Mumbai Indians captain walked off for treatment on injured fingers as the television umpire negated the catch.
Harbhajan's knack of making things happen, complemented by Rayudu's reflexes behind the stumps, resulted in Pietersen's exit. The off-spinner saw the batsman stepping out, bowled down the leg-side and the wicket-keeper finished the task with a flourish, diving sideways to take the bails off.
Uthappa left after a short burst, sweeping sixes off Harbhajan. Mumbai Indians appeared to have turned the tide when a fine piece of fielding by Pollard ran out Dravid (23 runs, 22 balls), collecting a throw from R. Sathish and flinging his body forward to effect a diving run-out, leaving RCB still to get a grip on the chase at the half-way mark (83 for two in 10 overs). Rayudu then latched on to an edge by Kohli.
Rayudu and Saurabh Tiwary, busy as bees earlier at the crease, put on 67 runs off 49 balls in a fifth-wicket stand when the RCB bowlers were on top.
Rayudu started with an imperious drive over the bowler's head, then scored 40 off 38 balls creating the launchpad for the big-hitters to follow. Tiwary cleared the ball with huge swings, using the bat like a sledgehammer for four sixes.
Mumbai Indians scored 184 for five thanks to a five-over blast from Tiwary and some clean-hitting by Pollard (33 not out off 13 balls). The West Indian smashed three sixes.
Mumbai Indians got a reality check about life without Tendulkar. The captain stretched outside the offstump to drive a Dale Steyn ball swinging away, scooped towards cover for Taylor to stun the home crowd into silence with a low, rolling catch. Kohli's sharp reaction cut short Shikhar Dhawan's short stint as five overs resulted in 39 runs and loss of both the openers.
Duminy's apprehensions against spin came true, startled by bounce from Kumble, angled across the left-hander. Pietersen kept plugging away at the other end, bowling flat and denying the batsmen pace off the track. Rayudu and Tiwary were patient, working the ball around for singles to rotate strike.
Tendulkar opted to bat after winning the toss, but Mumbai Indians gained momentum in the 14th over bowled by Kohli.
Tiwary cleared mid-wicket with a huge swing across for the first six as the home team crossed the 100-run milestone. He stepped out for his second six, a huge swing over long-on off Kallis in the 16th over.
The scores:
Mumbai Indians: S. Dhawan (run out) 12 (9b, 2x4), S. Tendulkar c Taylor b Steyn 9 (9b, 2x4), A. Nayar c Praveen b Pietersen 22 (18b, 2x4), A. Rayudu c Kallis b Steyn 40 (38b, 4x4), J-P. Duminy c Pietersen b Kumble 3 (4b), S. Tiwary (not out) 52 (31b, 3x4, 4x6), K. Pollard (not out) 33 (13b, 1x4, 3x6), Extras (lb-2, nb-2, w-9) 13; Total (for five wickets in 20 overs) 184.
Fall of wickets: 1-11, 2-29, 3-68, 4-77, 5-144.
Royal Challengers Bangalore bowling: Praveen 3-0-29-0, Steyn 4-0-43-2, Vinay 2-0-25-0, Kallis 2-0-25-0, Kumble 4-0-30-1, Pietersen 4-0-20-1, Kohli 1-0-10-0.
Royal Challengers Bangalore: J. Kallis c Rayudu b Malinga 11 (9b, 2x4), R. Dravid (run out) 23 (22b, 3x4), K. Pietersen st. Rayudu b Harbhajan 19 (14b, 2x4), R. Uthappa c Dhawan b Pollard 26 (13b, 2x4, 2x6), R. Taylor (not out) 31 (30b, 1x4, 1x6), V. Kohli c Rayudu b Pollard 9 (7b, 1x4), M. Pandey c Duminy b Pollard 5 (9b), Praveen b Harbhajan 1 (2b), Vinay b Malinga 8 (8b), D. Steyn b Fernando 5 (5b, 1x4), A. Kumble (not out) 1 (2b), Extras (nb-1, w-7, lb-2) 10; Total (for nine wickets in 20 overs) 149.
Fall of wickets: 1-24, 2-47, 3-81, 4-81, 5-97, 6-108, 7-118, 8-134, 9-146.
Mumbai Indians bowling: Zaheer 4-0-34-0, Fernando 4-0-28-1, Malinga 4-0-24-2, Harbhajan 4-0-44-2, Pollard 4-0-17-3.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
BCCI to decide on Lalit Modi on April 26: Sharad Pawar
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will take a final decision on Indian Premier League (IPL) commissioner Lalit Modi's association with the tournament only on April 26.
The third edition of the IPL concludes in Mumbai on April 25 and the BCCI has called a meeting of the IPL general council to decide on Mr. Modi's fate.
“No decision has been taken on Lalit Modi. It is only speculation. We can only come to a decision after the governing council of the IPL meets on April 26,” said Union Minister Sharad Pawar after a meeting with BCCI president Shashank Manohar at his residence here on Tuesday.
Mr. Pawar, a former BCCI president and the next president of the International Cricket Council, said: “We are not vested with the authority to take a decision on our own. The governing council will not interfere with the basic rights of all members.”
The meeting was prompted by reports that the BCCI was under pressure to take notice of the allegations made against Mr. Modi in his role as IPL commissioner. As a senior BCCI member, Mr. Pawar is expected to play the leading role in tackling the issue. “Don't forget that Modi is a vice-president of the BCCI. We have to put together our experience before we come to a decision. We have always taken collective and unanimous decisions and that is what will happen in this case too,” Mr. Pawar said.
According to sources, the BCCI wants to give Mr. Modi the time and the platform to clarify his position. “We know allegations have been made [against Mr. Modi and IPL] but then we can't just go by what people have been saying. We would be the first to take action against anyone found guilty of any illegal activity. But the BCCI feels it would be fair to give Modi a chance to defend himself. If the charges against him are proved, the BCCI would not waste time in taking action against him,” said a senior BCCI member.
Wait for meet: Modi
PTI reports from Mumbai:
On his part, Mr. Modi, back from Dubai after attending a meeting of the ICC, parried questions about his resignation, saying the matter would be discussed and a unanimous decision taken at the governing council meeting on April 26.
“I think all of you have the same question. On April 26, we have the governing council. We will meet there and discuss all these allegations that are coming out,” Mr. Modi said.
“There is no point discussing it [his resignation]. Shashank Manohar and Sharad Pawar already met this [on Tuesday] morning. They are all united in the same area. Decision will be taken unanimously by the governing council,” he said. “I will present all the facts against all the allegations. There is nothing to worry about and we will carry on,” he added.
The third edition of the IPL concludes in Mumbai on April 25 and the BCCI has called a meeting of the IPL general council to decide on Mr. Modi's fate.
“No decision has been taken on Lalit Modi. It is only speculation. We can only come to a decision after the governing council of the IPL meets on April 26,” said Union Minister Sharad Pawar after a meeting with BCCI president Shashank Manohar at his residence here on Tuesday.
Mr. Pawar, a former BCCI president and the next president of the International Cricket Council, said: “We are not vested with the authority to take a decision on our own. The governing council will not interfere with the basic rights of all members.”
The meeting was prompted by reports that the BCCI was under pressure to take notice of the allegations made against Mr. Modi in his role as IPL commissioner. As a senior BCCI member, Mr. Pawar is expected to play the leading role in tackling the issue. “Don't forget that Modi is a vice-president of the BCCI. We have to put together our experience before we come to a decision. We have always taken collective and unanimous decisions and that is what will happen in this case too,” Mr. Pawar said.
According to sources, the BCCI wants to give Mr. Modi the time and the platform to clarify his position. “We know allegations have been made [against Mr. Modi and IPL] but then we can't just go by what people have been saying. We would be the first to take action against anyone found guilty of any illegal activity. But the BCCI feels it would be fair to give Modi a chance to defend himself. If the charges against him are proved, the BCCI would not waste time in taking action against him,” said a senior BCCI member.
Wait for meet: Modi
PTI reports from Mumbai:
On his part, Mr. Modi, back from Dubai after attending a meeting of the ICC, parried questions about his resignation, saying the matter would be discussed and a unanimous decision taken at the governing council meeting on April 26.
“I think all of you have the same question. On April 26, we have the governing council. We will meet there and discuss all these allegations that are coming out,” Mr. Modi said.
“There is no point discussing it [his resignation]. Shashank Manohar and Sharad Pawar already met this [on Tuesday] morning. They are all united in the same area. Decision will be taken unanimously by the governing council,” he said. “I will present all the facts against all the allegations. There is nothing to worry about and we will carry on,” he added.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Modi may be sacked
With several Central agencies vying to haul the IPL commissioner, Mr Lalit Modi, over the coals in the controversy regarding the Indian Premier League, it could possibly be the end of his innings in cricket: his wings are likely to be clipped by the BCCI panel. Sources said the BCCI president, Mr Shashank Manohar, could be the man to replace Mr Modi as the head of the IPL.
Mr Modi may be asked to step down at a meeting of the IPL governing council likely on April 26. It has been learnt that if he refuses to step down, the BCCI will convene an emergency AGM and pass a resolution to oust the IPL commissioner. Mr Modi has reportedly not been invited for that meeting.
Meanwhile, apart from the income-tax department, officials from the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) will question Mr Modi, sources said. The move comes in the wake of reported allegations that a few IPL officials might be engaged in betting on international websites.
Mr Modi, who had been to Dubai to meet the Kochi franchise consortium chairman, Mr Harshad Mehta, on Sunday, was to meet I-T officials at his Worli office in Mumbai on Monday.
Mr Modi may be asked to step down at a meeting of the IPL governing council likely on April 26. It has been learnt that if he refuses to step down, the BCCI will convene an emergency AGM and pass a resolution to oust the IPL commissioner. Mr Modi has reportedly not been invited for that meeting.
Meanwhile, apart from the income-tax department, officials from the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) will question Mr Modi, sources said. The move comes in the wake of reported allegations that a few IPL officials might be engaged in betting on international websites.
Mr Modi, who had been to Dubai to meet the Kochi franchise consortium chairman, Mr Harshad Mehta, on Sunday, was to meet I-T officials at his Worli office in Mumbai on Monday.
Monday, April 19, 2010
Police recover more explosives near Bangalore stadium
Some explosive materials were recovered from near a gate of Chinnaswamy stadium — near the site of two low intensity blasts — a few hours after an unexploded crude bomb was detected at M.G. Road area of the city Sunday morning, police said.
“Besides the unexploded bomb, found some 150 metres away from the stadium, some explosive materials were also found near gate number one,” Police Commissioner Shankar Bidari told reporters here.
The explosive materials were concealed in a flex column and did not have a detonator or timer, he said. “We discovered it while searching all the flex boards” a senior officer said.
“There are over 1000 flex boards near the stadium and in the vicinity and we are checking all the flex boards around the stadium and 500 metres away. Each flex board is being thoroughly checked,” he said.
The explosive material was found when the flex column was opened during search operations. It appeared that the explosive had been stuffed through the bottom of the column, he said, adding that the material would be subjected to chemical analysis.
Police began combing operations in the area and were checking all billboards after two low intensity crude bombs exploded outside the stadium minutes before an IPL match between Royal Challengers Bangalore and Mumbai Indians was to begin on Saturday, leaving 17 people injured.
At least eight to ten people are being questioned in connection with the explosion, police said. However, no arrest has been made so far. “The interrogative process is very much on,” they said. Meanwhile, police have tightened security in and around the area.
Bomb disposal squad were conducting combing operation and sniffer dogs have been pressed into service to detect suspicious objects.
“Besides the unexploded bomb, found some 150 metres away from the stadium, some explosive materials were also found near gate number one,” Police Commissioner Shankar Bidari told reporters here.
The explosive materials were concealed in a flex column and did not have a detonator or timer, he said. “We discovered it while searching all the flex boards” a senior officer said.
“There are over 1000 flex boards near the stadium and in the vicinity and we are checking all the flex boards around the stadium and 500 metres away. Each flex board is being thoroughly checked,” he said.
The explosive material was found when the flex column was opened during search operations. It appeared that the explosive had been stuffed through the bottom of the column, he said, adding that the material would be subjected to chemical analysis.
Police began combing operations in the area and were checking all billboards after two low intensity crude bombs exploded outside the stadium minutes before an IPL match between Royal Challengers Bangalore and Mumbai Indians was to begin on Saturday, leaving 17 people injured.
At least eight to ten people are being questioned in connection with the explosion, police said. However, no arrest has been made so far. “The interrogative process is very much on,” they said. Meanwhile, police have tightened security in and around the area.
Bomb disposal squad were conducting combing operation and sniffer dogs have been pressed into service to detect suspicious objects.
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Bulls barge into top bracket
Deccan Chargers took a giant leap towards the IPL-3 semifinals in scenic Dharamshala as a Rohit Sharma special (68 not out, 38b, 6x4, 3x6) guided the Bulls to a thrilling five-wicket win over Kings XI Punjab at the HPCA Stadium here on Friday.
Chasing 175, Sharma’s skilful knock and useful contributions by Tirumalasetti Suman and Aussie rookie Mitchell Marsh got the Chargers home in the final over of the match with five wickets in hand and lifted them to fourth in the IPL points table.
Deccan Chargers skipper Adam Gilchrist got the chase off on the right note with a four off the very first ball of Vikramjeet Malik. However, the trailblazer fell in the very next over as he skied Irfan Pathan to Juan Theron. Monish Mishra continued his fine form and struck four boundaries in his 20 before falling leg-before to Malik.
Sharma almost lost Suman early. Going down the track to Piyush Chawla, the 26-year-old was beaten for flight. However, the KXIP skipper failed to grab the ball and an important chance fell by the wayside.
Suman (43, 31b, 3x4, 3x6) made the most of his reprieve before a Chawla top-spinner saw Suman trying to cut the ball, but he could only find the toe of the bat and Sangakkara made no mistake this time around and held a fine catch.
Andrew Symonds failed to get the task done and was dismissed by Theron for four.
Earlier, Deccan Chargers’ Ryan Harris set the hosts back in the first over itself dismissing compatriot Shaun Marsh for a first-ball duck. Mahela Jayawardene got into his groove and alongside skipper Sangakkara went about rebuilding the innings, cautiously at first, before unleashing some exquisite strokeplay.
Scoreboard
Kings XI Punjab
Mahela Jayawardene not out 93, Shaun Marsh c Adam Gilchrist b Ryan Harris 0, Kumar Sangakkara c Pragyan Ojha b Rahul Sharma 52, Yuvraj Singh c Andrew Symonds b R.P. Singh 20, Irfan Pathan not out 1.
Extras (lb-3, w-4, nb-1) 8
Total (in 20 overs) 174/3
FoW: 1-1, 2-87, 3-173.
Bowling: Ryan Harris 4-0-27-1, R.P. Singh 4-0-51-1, Mitchell Marsh 4-0-32-0, Andrew Symonds 2-0-16-0, Rohit Sharma 1-0-8-0, Pragyan Ojha 2-0-19-0, Rahul Sharma 3-0-18-1.
Deccan chargers
Adam Gilchrist c Juan Theron b Irfan Pathan 9, Monish Mishra lbw Vikramjeet Malik 20, Tirumalasetti Suman c Kumar Sangakkara b Piyush Chawla 43, Rohit Sharma not out 68, Andrew Symonds b Juan Theron 4, Mitchell Marsh c Mahela Jayawardene b Yuvraj Singh 15, Bodapati Sumanth not out 6.
Extras (lb-6, w-7) 13
Total (in 19.1 overs) 178/5
FoW: 1-13, 2-54, 3-120, 4-126, 5-154.
Bowling: Vikramjeet Malik 2.1-0-23-1, Irfan Pathan 3-0-35-1, Shalabh Srivastava 4-0-36-0, Juan Theron 4-0-32-1, Piyush Chawla 4-0-24-1, Yuvraj Singh 2-0-22-1.
Chasing 175, Sharma’s skilful knock and useful contributions by Tirumalasetti Suman and Aussie rookie Mitchell Marsh got the Chargers home in the final over of the match with five wickets in hand and lifted them to fourth in the IPL points table.
Deccan Chargers skipper Adam Gilchrist got the chase off on the right note with a four off the very first ball of Vikramjeet Malik. However, the trailblazer fell in the very next over as he skied Irfan Pathan to Juan Theron. Monish Mishra continued his fine form and struck four boundaries in his 20 before falling leg-before to Malik.
Sharma almost lost Suman early. Going down the track to Piyush Chawla, the 26-year-old was beaten for flight. However, the KXIP skipper failed to grab the ball and an important chance fell by the wayside.
Suman (43, 31b, 3x4, 3x6) made the most of his reprieve before a Chawla top-spinner saw Suman trying to cut the ball, but he could only find the toe of the bat and Sangakkara made no mistake this time around and held a fine catch.
Andrew Symonds failed to get the task done and was dismissed by Theron for four.
Earlier, Deccan Chargers’ Ryan Harris set the hosts back in the first over itself dismissing compatriot Shaun Marsh for a first-ball duck. Mahela Jayawardene got into his groove and alongside skipper Sangakkara went about rebuilding the innings, cautiously at first, before unleashing some exquisite strokeplay.
Scoreboard
Kings XI Punjab
Mahela Jayawardene not out 93, Shaun Marsh c Adam Gilchrist b Ryan Harris 0, Kumar Sangakkara c Pragyan Ojha b Rahul Sharma 52, Yuvraj Singh c Andrew Symonds b R.P. Singh 20, Irfan Pathan not out 1.
Extras (lb-3, w-4, nb-1) 8
Total (in 20 overs) 174/3
FoW: 1-1, 2-87, 3-173.
Bowling: Ryan Harris 4-0-27-1, R.P. Singh 4-0-51-1, Mitchell Marsh 4-0-32-0, Andrew Symonds 2-0-16-0, Rohit Sharma 1-0-8-0, Pragyan Ojha 2-0-19-0, Rahul Sharma 3-0-18-1.
Deccan chargers
Adam Gilchrist c Juan Theron b Irfan Pathan 9, Monish Mishra lbw Vikramjeet Malik 20, Tirumalasetti Suman c Kumar Sangakkara b Piyush Chawla 43, Rohit Sharma not out 68, Andrew Symonds b Juan Theron 4, Mitchell Marsh c Mahela Jayawardene b Yuvraj Singh 15, Bodapati Sumanth not out 6.
Extras (lb-6, w-7) 13
Total (in 19.1 overs) 178/5
FoW: 1-13, 2-54, 3-120, 4-126, 5-154.
Bowling: Vikramjeet Malik 2.1-0-23-1, Irfan Pathan 3-0-35-1, Shalabh Srivastava 4-0-36-0, Juan Theron 4-0-32-1, Piyush Chawla 4-0-24-1, Yuvraj Singh 2-0-22-1.
Friday, April 16, 2010
I-T officials raid IPL office, grill Modi
Indian Premier League commissioner Mr Lalit Modi was quizzed by a team of Income Tax officials, who were seeking details of the funds raised by different franchisees of the IPL on Thursday.
With this latest development, which is seen as a fall-out of the battle between Mr Modi and the minister of state for external affairs, Mr Shashi Tharoor, the mentor of the Kochi franchise, sources said the BCCI has decided to clip Mr Modi’s wings and appoint BCCI president as the co-chairman of the IPL.
Earlier during the day, a team of I-T officials had “visited” four offices of the Indian Premiere League at different places in Mumbai including its headquarters at the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s office.
I-T officials were quick to dismiss these “visits” as raids and said that they were just “collecting and checking” documents from the IPL, to check the records of the franchises and the organisation itself. However, the fact that the I-T officials also took their own forensics team to check the documents, indicated that the I-T department meant business. The forensic team was taken to check whether any of the documents were fudged or if the accounts genuine.
While one of the offices was the BCCI headquarters, Mr Modi’s office at Four Seasons Hotel and another unidentified place in Bandra and Mahalaxmi were among other places visited by I-T officials.
The “visits” were conducted under Section 131 of the I-T Act. At the time of going to press, one of the I-T teams was still questioning Mr Modi in his office. Sources in the I-T department said that Thursday’s events were just a precursor and the documents would be studied and passed on to the relevant departments.
“The Enforcement Directorate and Department of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) will also be involved if it is suspected that money invested here was done through fraudulent means like money laundering, hawala transactions or simply converting black money into white.”
Senior I-T officials refused to comment on the developments or whether the “visits” and “inquiries” had anything to do with the full-blown fight between Mr Modi and Mr Tharoor.
In a related development, a senior NCP leader, on condition of anonymity, dismissed the speculation that the NCP chief, Mr Sharad Pawar, has anything to do with the issue. He alleged that “Tharoor’s aides” are resorting to such things because they want to score some brownie points within the Congress by speaking against the NCP and Gujarat Chief Minister, Mr Narendra Modi.
He said who met whom and others are not core issues. “The core issue is — for what reason was the sweat equity allotted to Sunanda Pushkar and others? There are others also whose names have come to the fore. For what they are getting it?” he said.
The IPL Kochi franchise spokesperson, Mr Satyajit Gaekwad, said “We were told that we won’t be allowed to work. The Adani Group and Mr Narendra Modi had a stake in the Ahmedabad IPL bid. After we won the bid, our investors spoke to Mr Pawar and asked him which city to choose. He said, ‘You can take your pick’ so we decided to take Kochi.”
With this latest development, which is seen as a fall-out of the battle between Mr Modi and the minister of state for external affairs, Mr Shashi Tharoor, the mentor of the Kochi franchise, sources said the BCCI has decided to clip Mr Modi’s wings and appoint BCCI president as the co-chairman of the IPL.
Earlier during the day, a team of I-T officials had “visited” four offices of the Indian Premiere League at different places in Mumbai including its headquarters at the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s office.
I-T officials were quick to dismiss these “visits” as raids and said that they were just “collecting and checking” documents from the IPL, to check the records of the franchises and the organisation itself. However, the fact that the I-T officials also took their own forensics team to check the documents, indicated that the I-T department meant business. The forensic team was taken to check whether any of the documents were fudged or if the accounts genuine.
While one of the offices was the BCCI headquarters, Mr Modi’s office at Four Seasons Hotel and another unidentified place in Bandra and Mahalaxmi were among other places visited by I-T officials.
The “visits” were conducted under Section 131 of the I-T Act. At the time of going to press, one of the I-T teams was still questioning Mr Modi in his office. Sources in the I-T department said that Thursday’s events were just a precursor and the documents would be studied and passed on to the relevant departments.
“The Enforcement Directorate and Department of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) will also be involved if it is suspected that money invested here was done through fraudulent means like money laundering, hawala transactions or simply converting black money into white.”
Senior I-T officials refused to comment on the developments or whether the “visits” and “inquiries” had anything to do with the full-blown fight between Mr Modi and Mr Tharoor.
In a related development, a senior NCP leader, on condition of anonymity, dismissed the speculation that the NCP chief, Mr Sharad Pawar, has anything to do with the issue. He alleged that “Tharoor’s aides” are resorting to such things because they want to score some brownie points within the Congress by speaking against the NCP and Gujarat Chief Minister, Mr Narendra Modi.
He said who met whom and others are not core issues. “The core issue is — for what reason was the sweat equity allotted to Sunanda Pushkar and others? There are others also whose names have come to the fore. For what they are getting it?” he said.
The IPL Kochi franchise spokesperson, Mr Satyajit Gaekwad, said “We were told that we won’t be allowed to work. The Adani Group and Mr Narendra Modi had a stake in the Ahmedabad IPL bid. After we won the bid, our investors spoke to Mr Pawar and asked him which city to choose. He said, ‘You can take your pick’ so we decided to take Kochi.”
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
IPL teaches Preity life lessons
Preity Zinta’s Indian Premier League team Kings XI Punjab has not been performing well in the third edition of the game, but Preity says she has learnt to accept failures with a smile.
“This year is special! I have learnt more about myself than ever in the past. I learnt to accept failure with a smile and (with) my head held high,” the pretty actress recently tweeted.
With an improvement in her team’s performance, Preity has a reason to rejoice. But she isn’t forgetting her recent lessons either. “I learnt who my real friends were and to stand alone and hold my ground. I learnt to keep the faith and I learnt the importance of silence. Also, I learnt that the fastest way to forget all your problems in the world was to wear a pair of tight shoes,” Preity says in her tweet.
In the meantime, the actress is planning a long holiday after the IPL matches are over and hopes to return completely refreshed. “Will take a long break and then come back recharged to work on my movies,” she tweets. Well, here’s wishing Preity and her team all the luck they need.
“This year is special! I have learnt more about myself than ever in the past. I learnt to accept failure with a smile and (with) my head held high,” the pretty actress recently tweeted.
With an improvement in her team’s performance, Preity has a reason to rejoice. But she isn’t forgetting her recent lessons either. “I learnt who my real friends were and to stand alone and hold my ground. I learnt to keep the faith and I learnt the importance of silence. Also, I learnt that the fastest way to forget all your problems in the world was to wear a pair of tight shoes,” Preity says in her tweet.
In the meantime, the actress is planning a long holiday after the IPL matches are over and hopes to return completely refreshed. “Will take a long break and then come back recharged to work on my movies,” she tweets. Well, here’s wishing Preity and her team all the luck they need.
Monday, April 5, 2010
Daredevils beat Bangalore by 37 runs
Pradeep Sangwan and Amit Mishra took 3 wickets each as Delhi Daredevils beat Royal Challengers Bangalore by 37 runs in their IPL clash.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Pune, Kochi named new IPL teams
Sahara bagged Pune while little known Rendezvous Sports World Limited clinched Kochi as the Indian Premier League today unveiled two new teams joining the cash-awash Twenty20 league.
IPL Commissioner Lalit Modi said Sahara Adventure Sports Group made an identical USD 370 million bid for three cities —— Ahmedabad, Nagpur and Pune.
“They made the highest bid for all three cities and were asked to chose one of those cities. So Pune will be the home ground of their team,” Mr. Modi told reporters.
Rendezvous Sports World Limited made the second highest bid today but their offer of USD 333.33 million was enough to land the Kochi franchise, Mr. Modi said.
“In all, five groups qualified for the bid and I hope they make good business,” Mr. Modi said.
He also made it clear that there were no plans to have a second IPL abroad.
“I’m always misquoted by the media. This is Indian Premier League and there is no plan to have a second IPL abroad.
“We also have no plans to expand further immediately. In fact I don’t foresee an expansion in many many years to come but then you never know,” he added.
Apart from the two successful bidders, other groups which took part in the bidding included Adani Groups and VC Digital Solution (Videocon).
IPL Commissioner Lalit Modi said Sahara Adventure Sports Group made an identical USD 370 million bid for three cities —— Ahmedabad, Nagpur and Pune.
“They made the highest bid for all three cities and were asked to chose one of those cities. So Pune will be the home ground of their team,” Mr. Modi told reporters.
Rendezvous Sports World Limited made the second highest bid today but their offer of USD 333.33 million was enough to land the Kochi franchise, Mr. Modi said.
“In all, five groups qualified for the bid and I hope they make good business,” Mr. Modi said.
He also made it clear that there were no plans to have a second IPL abroad.
“I’m always misquoted by the media. This is Indian Premier League and there is no plan to have a second IPL abroad.
“We also have no plans to expand further immediately. In fact I don’t foresee an expansion in many many years to come but then you never know,” he added.
Apart from the two successful bidders, other groups which took part in the bidding included Adani Groups and VC Digital Solution (Videocon).
Friday, March 19, 2010
Priyanka makes TV debut
The former Miss World will host the special Indian Premiere League (IPL) edition of the adventure reality show "Fear Factor-Khatron Ke Khiladi" on the Colors channel
Actor Priyanka Chopra will make her debut on small screen as the host of the adventure reality show “Fear Factor— Khatron Ke Khiladi”.
She will host the special Indian Premiere League (IPL) edition of the show on the Colors channel. The glamorous actress, who has replaced action star Akshay Kumar as the host, will be taking 13 cricketers to task.
“It feels fantastic to be associated with one of the biggest shows on Indian television today. It fits perfectly with my personality. I have been a huge fan of the show and thoroughly enjoy watching it.
“I am looking forward to begin an all new innings in TV with this show which pumps up the adrenaline levels. It’s exciting to be a part of the concept which is unique and is associated with some of the biggest names in cricket,” Priyanka said in a press release.
The special edition of the show will feature Indian as well as international cricketers competing with each other to vie for the “Fear Factor — Khaton Ka Khiladi” title for 2010.
Colors’ programming head Ashvini Yardi says Priyanka has replaced Akshay due to a change in format.
“Akshay took this show to great heights with his inimitable style. However, this year we{gt}re changing the format. So far you had seen 13 beauties with one khiladi. This season get ready to witness 13 cricketing khiladis (macho men) and ek haseena (one beauty),” said Yardi.
“We’re delighted to have Priyanka on board. When you combine her glamour, mass appeal and athleticism with cricketers’ energy and adrenalin, what you get is the best possible combination for a show like ‘Fear Factor — Khatron Ke Khiladi’,” she added.
Actor Priyanka Chopra will make her debut on small screen as the host of the adventure reality show “Fear Factor— Khatron Ke Khiladi”.
She will host the special Indian Premiere League (IPL) edition of the show on the Colors channel. The glamorous actress, who has replaced action star Akshay Kumar as the host, will be taking 13 cricketers to task.
“It feels fantastic to be associated with one of the biggest shows on Indian television today. It fits perfectly with my personality. I have been a huge fan of the show and thoroughly enjoy watching it.
“I am looking forward to begin an all new innings in TV with this show which pumps up the adrenaline levels. It’s exciting to be a part of the concept which is unique and is associated with some of the biggest names in cricket,” Priyanka said in a press release.
The special edition of the show will feature Indian as well as international cricketers competing with each other to vie for the “Fear Factor — Khaton Ka Khiladi” title for 2010.
Colors’ programming head Ashvini Yardi says Priyanka has replaced Akshay due to a change in format.
“Akshay took this show to great heights with his inimitable style. However, this year we{gt}re changing the format. So far you had seen 13 beauties with one khiladi. This season get ready to witness 13 cricketing khiladis (macho men) and ek haseena (one beauty),” said Yardi.
“We’re delighted to have Priyanka on board. When you combine her glamour, mass appeal and athleticism with cricketers’ energy and adrenalin, what you get is the best possible combination for a show like ‘Fear Factor — Khatron Ke Khiladi’,” she added.
Friday, March 12, 2010
IPL: News channels end boycott
News broadcasters on Friday ended their boycott of the third edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) after an agreement with the cash-rich Indian league authorities.
“The news broadcasters end boycott of IPL coverage. Let the show begin,” editor-in-chief of IBN network Rajdeep Sardesai said on his Twitter account.
The development came hours before the IPL was scheduled to begin with a match between 2009 champions Deccan Chargers and Kolkata Knight Riders in Navi Mumbai on Friday night.
As per the new guidelines issued by the IPL, “there has to be a minimum of a 10-minute delay from the live telecast by the official broadcaster before telecast of any match footage by a news broadcaster.”
However, the “news broadcasters will be allowed to telecast an exceptional event (newsworthy event of an exceptional nature) occurring during the course of a match with a minimum of a five-minute delay from the conclusion of the live telecast of such exceptional event”.
The 15-point guidelines includes a clause that news and current affairs broadcasters will be allowed a maximum of 5.5 minutes of ‘fresh footage’ per match in a day, “including not more than 4.5 minutes of deferred live coverage of match play and not more than 1.5 minutes of deferred in-stadium entertainment footage”.
Earlier, the main bone of contention was a diktat from the IPL authorities that non-rights broadcasters could air the footages only half an hour after a match. The maximum fresh footage that could be used by them was another area of conflict which has also now been resolved.
The news channels are also permitted to use an aggregate of two minutes of footage per half an hour of broadcast “subject to not more than 5.5 minutes of fresh footage per match”.
The pact also says a maximum of two repeats of footage initially broadcast by the news broadcaster would be permitted in each hour of broadcast.
“It’s good that we have come to an understanding with the news channels. It’s a nice way to start the tournament. I find the channels are already full of news concerning IPL,” the league’s vice chairman Niranjan Shah told IANS.
The news broadcasters had announced a boycott of the IPL, describing some of the guidelines for the third edition “arbitrary”.
“The news broadcasters end boycott of IPL coverage. Let the show begin,” editor-in-chief of IBN network Rajdeep Sardesai said on his Twitter account.
The development came hours before the IPL was scheduled to begin with a match between 2009 champions Deccan Chargers and Kolkata Knight Riders in Navi Mumbai on Friday night.
As per the new guidelines issued by the IPL, “there has to be a minimum of a 10-minute delay from the live telecast by the official broadcaster before telecast of any match footage by a news broadcaster.”
However, the “news broadcasters will be allowed to telecast an exceptional event (newsworthy event of an exceptional nature) occurring during the course of a match with a minimum of a five-minute delay from the conclusion of the live telecast of such exceptional event”.
The 15-point guidelines includes a clause that news and current affairs broadcasters will be allowed a maximum of 5.5 minutes of ‘fresh footage’ per match in a day, “including not more than 4.5 minutes of deferred live coverage of match play and not more than 1.5 minutes of deferred in-stadium entertainment footage”.
Earlier, the main bone of contention was a diktat from the IPL authorities that non-rights broadcasters could air the footages only half an hour after a match. The maximum fresh footage that could be used by them was another area of conflict which has also now been resolved.
The news channels are also permitted to use an aggregate of two minutes of footage per half an hour of broadcast “subject to not more than 5.5 minutes of fresh footage per match”.
The pact also says a maximum of two repeats of footage initially broadcast by the news broadcaster would be permitted in each hour of broadcast.
“It’s good that we have come to an understanding with the news channels. It’s a nice way to start the tournament. I find the channels are already full of news concerning IPL,” the league’s vice chairman Niranjan Shah told IANS.
The news broadcasters had announced a boycott of the IPL, describing some of the guidelines for the third edition “arbitrary”.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Modi promises fireworks in IPL-3
The continuing by TV news channels boycott notwithstanding, Indian Premier League commissioner Lalit Modi expects a successful third edition of the cash-rich Twenty20 event starting March 12.
“The preparations are in full swing and there are no hiccups. We all are ready to go. We have planned a very good opening night as well as opening ceremony with a spectacular laser and fireworks show,” Modi said at a media conference.
But Modi was not too worried about IPL’s stand-off with NBA and said he expected the TRP ratings of the IPL action to get boosted. “People can see IPL action on Sony and YouTube (with whom the League has struck a deal to show complete ‘live’ action with a five-minute delay for India),” he said.
Two new franchises are set to be added next season but despite the increased number of matches, the Indian Premier League will not run beyond seven weeks as extending it would “hurt other forms of cricket,” Modi said.
“We are going to have the current limitation (in the IPL’s duration), and we are happy to live with that. Then (if we make it a longer tournament) you are going to start to hurting the other forms of the game,” Modi said.
“We chose the window specifically to be off-season in India, April-May are typically off season in India... I don’t think we are going to be able to change that,” he added.
The IPL will have 94 matches in the 2011 season but Modi said the tournament will only be 51 days long.
“It’s (next season) only over seven weeks instead of six, it’s over 51 days instead of 46, we have done the scheduling, we just have to announce it.”
Modi reiterated that Test cricket remains a priority for the BCCI. “Test cricket is our bread and butter which people don’t understand, we are never going to compromise on Test cricket,” he said.
Modi also defended the financial clauses put in place for buying new IPL franchises despite the fact that the stringent rules kept some interested parties away from the auction. The auction ultimately had to be put off till March 21 and new tenders were invited for the process as no one could match the $1 billion net worth clause. “We wouldn’t want that (clubs getting into a debt trap). When we did the 50m numbers, we projected certain revenue going forward, 80 per cent of the revenue (we earn) goes back to the franchises,” he said.
“When we did our numbers, it was on a business plan. The idea is that everybody should survive and make money on it, then only can somebody grow, because of the confidence, whatever we have done, we have no regrets,” he added.
“The preparations are in full swing and there are no hiccups. We all are ready to go. We have planned a very good opening night as well as opening ceremony with a spectacular laser and fireworks show,” Modi said at a media conference.
But Modi was not too worried about IPL’s stand-off with NBA and said he expected the TRP ratings of the IPL action to get boosted. “People can see IPL action on Sony and YouTube (with whom the League has struck a deal to show complete ‘live’ action with a five-minute delay for India),” he said.
Two new franchises are set to be added next season but despite the increased number of matches, the Indian Premier League will not run beyond seven weeks as extending it would “hurt other forms of cricket,” Modi said.
“We are going to have the current limitation (in the IPL’s duration), and we are happy to live with that. Then (if we make it a longer tournament) you are going to start to hurting the other forms of the game,” Modi said.
“We chose the window specifically to be off-season in India, April-May are typically off season in India... I don’t think we are going to be able to change that,” he added.
The IPL will have 94 matches in the 2011 season but Modi said the tournament will only be 51 days long.
“It’s (next season) only over seven weeks instead of six, it’s over 51 days instead of 46, we have done the scheduling, we just have to announce it.”
Modi reiterated that Test cricket remains a priority for the BCCI. “Test cricket is our bread and butter which people don’t understand, we are never going to compromise on Test cricket,” he said.
Modi also defended the financial clauses put in place for buying new IPL franchises despite the fact that the stringent rules kept some interested parties away from the auction. The auction ultimately had to be put off till March 21 and new tenders were invited for the process as no one could match the $1 billion net worth clause. “We wouldn’t want that (clubs getting into a debt trap). When we did the 50m numbers, we projected certain revenue going forward, 80 per cent of the revenue (we earn) goes back to the franchises,” he said.
“When we did our numbers, it was on a business plan. The idea is that everybody should survive and make money on it, then only can somebody grow, because of the confidence, whatever we have done, we have no regrets,” he added.
IPL matches live on the big screen
The IPL matches may have been moved out of Hyderabad but fans are guaranteed excitement akin to that in a stadium thanks to multiplexes decidng to screen the matches live.
This is the first time that a sports event is being telecast in a theatre in India.
“We have completed all the formalities and obtained the licence from local authorities and are only waiting for UFO (a satellite company) to get back to us,” said Mr Penchal Reddy, GM of Inox.
“We plan to have promotional events, music, cheering — to create a stadium-feel. Tickets will not cost extra, just the usual movie rates will apply,” he said.
UFO and Real Image have acquired rights to telecast the matches in theatres. “According to IPL regulations and tie-up, UFO and Real Image will manage the screening of matches,” said Mr Vijendar Reddy, president, AP Film Exhibitors Association. “Matches will be telecast only in multiplexes and not cinema halls,” he said.
Mr Krishnamurthy Kishen of Prasads Multiplex is not sure about the telecast of matches. “We are keeping our fingers crossed. By Wednesday evening we will get a clear picture,” Mr Kishen said.
Adlabs, Cinemax and PVR are among the others who will be screening the matches. Mr Ashish Saksena, COO of BIG Cinemas (West and South), said, “We will try to screen as many matches as possible. As per the agreement we have to screen a minimum of 45 out of the 60 matches.”
This is the first time that a sports event is being telecast in a theatre in India.
“We have completed all the formalities and obtained the licence from local authorities and are only waiting for UFO (a satellite company) to get back to us,” said Mr Penchal Reddy, GM of Inox.
“We plan to have promotional events, music, cheering — to create a stadium-feel. Tickets will not cost extra, just the usual movie rates will apply,” he said.
UFO and Real Image have acquired rights to telecast the matches in theatres. “According to IPL regulations and tie-up, UFO and Real Image will manage the screening of matches,” said Mr Vijendar Reddy, president, AP Film Exhibitors Association. “Matches will be telecast only in multiplexes and not cinema halls,” he said.
Mr Krishnamurthy Kishen of Prasads Multiplex is not sure about the telecast of matches. “We are keeping our fingers crossed. By Wednesday evening we will get a clear picture,” Mr Kishen said.
Adlabs, Cinemax and PVR are among the others who will be screening the matches. Mr Ashish Saksena, COO of BIG Cinemas (West and South), said, “We will try to screen as many matches as possible. As per the agreement we have to screen a minimum of 45 out of the 60 matches.”
Monday, March 8, 2010
IPL helps local players: Dhoni
The security at the team hotel was predictably tight but Mahendra Singh Dhoni appeared relaxed and confident here on Monday, ahead of Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) battles in season III of the Indian Premier League.
Dhoni said, “We reached the final and the semifinal in the first two editions. We can win the title but need to play to our potential.
“But then, given the kind of format Twenty20 cricket is, you cannot guarantee success. Things can change very quickly. You can have good days and the not so good ones.”
He noticed the security around him too. “I think the security has been great. We are all feeling comfortable.”
Primary strength
The dashing wicket-keeper batsman maintained batting was CSK's primary strength. “We are basically a strong batting unit. We have a useful bowling attack too.
“We have players who can step in to bowl if our main bowlers go for runs. I think, overall, we have a balanced side,” said Dhoni.
Dhoni conceded CSK would miss the injured Andrew Flintoff who would take no part in this edition. He was not sure either about Jacob Oram's time-frame for recovery from yet another fitness concern.
“We have Justin Kemp this year though. He can be a destructive batsman and can chip in with the ball.”
He, however, expected the senior bowlers to rise to the occasion. “Someone like Muttiah Muralitharan is still a very good bowler. He is also a great character, adds a lot to the dressing room.”
The CSK skipper acknowledged IPL could be a gruelling event but added the upcoming edition would be less tiring than the competition in South Africa.
Home base
“Twenty20 cricket is a demanding format, physically and mentally. There is also a lot of travelling involved. But at least, we would have a base this time.
“We did not have that in South Africa. The competition would also help us to prepare well for the Twenty20 World Cup.”
Dhoni felt the domestic player had gained much from the IPL. “I think coach Fleming and cricketers such as Michael Hussey have been good mentors. A lot of Indian cricketers have benefited.
“S. Badrinath, M.S. Gony and M. Vijay have gone on to play for India. Suresh Raina has emerged a much better cricketer. So, the IPL really helps the emerging players.”
This is precisely the reason why Dhoni firmly believes only four foreign cricketers should figure in the eleven. “It is the Indian Premier League, right? I think, the Indian cricketers should gain the most from it.”
Fleming's take
Coach Stephen Fleming said, “While the international players enable a side win a game or two, it is the strength of the domestic players that helps a team win the title. I think a lot of good local talent has come through in Tamil Nadu.
“This is a region that has a rich history in the game and is extremely proud of its cricket. There is a very good development system for young cricketers here. All said, local players are the key.”
Talking about practice sessions, he said, “There would be more quality than quantity. We will strive to be extremely focussed and intense.”
Dhoni said, “We reached the final and the semifinal in the first two editions. We can win the title but need to play to our potential.
“But then, given the kind of format Twenty20 cricket is, you cannot guarantee success. Things can change very quickly. You can have good days and the not so good ones.”
He noticed the security around him too. “I think the security has been great. We are all feeling comfortable.”
Primary strength
The dashing wicket-keeper batsman maintained batting was CSK's primary strength. “We are basically a strong batting unit. We have a useful bowling attack too.
“We have players who can step in to bowl if our main bowlers go for runs. I think, overall, we have a balanced side,” said Dhoni.
Dhoni conceded CSK would miss the injured Andrew Flintoff who would take no part in this edition. He was not sure either about Jacob Oram's time-frame for recovery from yet another fitness concern.
“We have Justin Kemp this year though. He can be a destructive batsman and can chip in with the ball.”
He, however, expected the senior bowlers to rise to the occasion. “Someone like Muttiah Muralitharan is still a very good bowler. He is also a great character, adds a lot to the dressing room.”
The CSK skipper acknowledged IPL could be a gruelling event but added the upcoming edition would be less tiring than the competition in South Africa.
Home base
“Twenty20 cricket is a demanding format, physically and mentally. There is also a lot of travelling involved. But at least, we would have a base this time.
“We did not have that in South Africa. The competition would also help us to prepare well for the Twenty20 World Cup.”
Dhoni felt the domestic player had gained much from the IPL. “I think coach Fleming and cricketers such as Michael Hussey have been good mentors. A lot of Indian cricketers have benefited.
“S. Badrinath, M.S. Gony and M. Vijay have gone on to play for India. Suresh Raina has emerged a much better cricketer. So, the IPL really helps the emerging players.”
This is precisely the reason why Dhoni firmly believes only four foreign cricketers should figure in the eleven. “It is the Indian Premier League, right? I think, the Indian cricketers should gain the most from it.”
Fleming's take
Coach Stephen Fleming said, “While the international players enable a side win a game or two, it is the strength of the domestic players that helps a team win the title. I think a lot of good local talent has come through in Tamil Nadu.
“This is a region that has a rich history in the game and is extremely proud of its cricket. There is a very good development system for young cricketers here. All said, local players are the key.”
Talking about practice sessions, he said, “There would be more quality than quantity. We will strive to be extremely focussed and intense.”
Sunday, March 7, 2010
IPL raises the bar for bidders
The second big bang of the IPL dhamaka will take place at 11.40 am on Sunday, when the league’s bosses will open the bids from two more aspiring franchises. The running really is between Ahmedabad, Nagpur and Pune, though the offer is for 12 franchises.
While it is interesting to see which two bidders will pitch for two of the 12 franchises on offer, the bigger story is on how IPL has grown in just three years.
From scratch, IPL honcho Lalit Modi has built up a brand whose value is estimated by UK-based Brand Finance at $4.1 billion (Rs 1,876 crore).
The standards for Sunday’s bidders are way higher than in the first auction in 2008.
This time, sources say, Mr Modi has allowed entry only for groups with a net worth of $1billion (Rs 4,578 crore). This would mean that the bidders would need a cash turnaround of Rs 10,000 crore.
By this standard, in 2008, only Mukesh Ambani of Reliance Industries (Mumbai Indians) would have qualified among the current franchisees, with Vijay Mallya of the Kingfisher group (Bangalore Royal Challengers) and N. Srinivasan of India Cements (Chennai Superkings) close behind.
Current franchisees are watching the bids as it will push up the valuations of their own teams.
IPL facts
* IPL netted Rs 37.4 crore in application fees alone
* IPL brand value estimated at $4.1 billion (Rs 1,876 crore)
* All bidders have to give a bank guarantee for bidding amount
* Bidding is for two of the following cities: Ahmedabad, Nagpur, Pune, Kanpur, Vizag, Dharamsala, Indore, Cuttack, Gwalior, Baroda, Rajkot, Kochi
* Rumours have it that Gujarat Group, Videocon with Abhi-
shek Bachchan, Sahara group with Big B, and Poonawala Group are likely to bid
* IPL press meet in Mumbai at 11.40 am on Sunday
While it is interesting to see which two bidders will pitch for two of the 12 franchises on offer, the bigger story is on how IPL has grown in just three years.
From scratch, IPL honcho Lalit Modi has built up a brand whose value is estimated by UK-based Brand Finance at $4.1 billion (Rs 1,876 crore).
The standards for Sunday’s bidders are way higher than in the first auction in 2008.
This time, sources say, Mr Modi has allowed entry only for groups with a net worth of $1billion (Rs 4,578 crore). This would mean that the bidders would need a cash turnaround of Rs 10,000 crore.
By this standard, in 2008, only Mukesh Ambani of Reliance Industries (Mumbai Indians) would have qualified among the current franchisees, with Vijay Mallya of the Kingfisher group (Bangalore Royal Challengers) and N. Srinivasan of India Cements (Chennai Superkings) close behind.
Current franchisees are watching the bids as it will push up the valuations of their own teams.
IPL facts
* IPL netted Rs 37.4 crore in application fees alone
* IPL brand value estimated at $4.1 billion (Rs 1,876 crore)
* All bidders have to give a bank guarantee for bidding amount
* Bidding is for two of the following cities: Ahmedabad, Nagpur, Pune, Kanpur, Vizag, Dharamsala, Indore, Cuttack, Gwalior, Baroda, Rajkot, Kochi
* Rumours have it that Gujarat Group, Videocon with Abhi-
shek Bachchan, Sahara group with Big B, and Poonawala Group are likely to bid
* IPL press meet in Mumbai at 11.40 am on Sunday
