‘ICL is no challenge to BCCI’

A day after Essel group chairman Subhash Chandra debunked talk of falling out with Union agriculture minister and Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sharad Pawar, the latter confirmed that they shared a good relationship. That’s despite the Indian Cricket League’s (ICL’s) foray into the business. However, Pawar maintained that ICL, which has taken the board to court, is no threat to BCCI’s supremacy, nor will it ever be. Excerpts from an exclusive interview:

Subhash Chandra has said some good things about you.
Yes, I’ve seen his statement. I agree with him. It is not a personal battle or an ego clash.

So, you and Chandra continue to be friends.
Yes, we share a healthy relationship. I have known him for a long time. I remember helping him on a few occasions. Our relationship is independent of the ICL and the BCCI.

Do you see ICL as a threat to the BCCI?
No, I don’t. It is a business venture by a businessman. He has every right to do whatever he thinks is good for his business. He can promote his business the way he wants to. Personally, I think it is not my business to be worried about it.

Will Chandra’s business affect the BCCI’s?
Who says that? How can you say that? His is a different venture. His league will not affect the BCCI’s business.

Related Post
You can decide ICL team captain
Don’t join the ICL, NZC tells Fleming
Losing players to ICL a big blow: Vinod
Butcher denies ICL link, Ramprakash not on radar
ICL questions BCCI’s use of national icons
ICL moves Delhi HC against BCCI
BCCI may still be bowled by ICL fee structure
ICL players excited about the new prospect
BCCI hikes domestic match fees
ICL may spend Rs 150 crore
BCCI gears up to meet threat from ICL
50 cricketers join ICL