Top BCCI functionary claims he does not know ICL

Rangpo, East Sikkim, Aug 29 (UNI) A top BCCI office bearer today said he was not aware of ICL (Indian Cricket League).

''I don't know about ICL'', said Prof R S Shetty, BCCI chief administrative officer to reporters at Rangpo Mining Ground here when he was asked by the media about the ongoing tussle between the two organizations.

Prof Shetty was accompanied by two more BCCI officials on his visit to the Himalayan state to study the cricketing infrastructure and the requirements of Sikkim Cricket Association (SCA).

After touring the ground and a discussion with SCA, Prof Shetty told reporters that BCCI will be helping the state association in conducting school level tournaments, infrastructural development and improving the ground requirements.

''These had already been agreed in principle by BCCI earlier for all the states needing our help,'' said Prof Shetty signalling that BCCI has nothing special to offer to Sikkim.

Regarding the long term demand of the SCA for a full fledged status with BCCI, Prof Shetty said Sikkim must fulfill the conditions as laid down in BCCI constitution.

Asked whether any special initiative is there from BCCI to help small cricket crazy states like Sikkim and other Northeastern states to get full fledged status, Prof Shetty said the guidelines as enshrined in the BCCI constitution is same for all states.

Though affiliated as an associate member with BCCI for the past sixteen years, Sikkim is yet to get full fledged member status. This has led SCA to file a petition at Sikkim High Court in 2006.

When questioned about it, Prof Shetty refused to comment and said the matter is subjudice.

Rangpo Mining Ground that has been allocated to SCA by the state government has the required specification (75 by 90 yards) with a total area of 22 acres.

UNI