Sachin, Sourav launch India cricketers' forum
M Chhaya in Kolkata
The much talked about Indian Cricket Players' Association was formally launched in Kolkata on Tuesday in the presence of former and present cricketing greats.
Former Test opener Arun Lal, who has been anointed secretary of the ICPA, announced the launch of the body that could now pose a direct challenge to the unquestioned supremacy of the Board of Control for Cricket in India.
Indian skipper Sourav Ganguly, his deputy Rahul Dravid, Sachin Tendulkar, Anil Kumble, Javagal Srinath and former Test cricketer and commentator Ravi Shastri were present at the press conference to announce the formation of the ICPA.
"Collectively we can become a great force. ICPA will go the furthest to voice the players' aspirations and views," Lal said.
Asked if its formation would see a clash with the BCCI, he said the ICPA would adopt a non-confrontational stance and "would essentially complement and supplement the BCCI".
The BCCI has not yet been formally intimated of the formation of the players' forum. "But the response from the BCCI so far has been positive," Lal said.
BCCI chief Jagmohan Dalmiya had earlier said the board would recognise only a body that represented every level of players. "We are trying to be the body that will represent all the layers of players, and the BCCI should really have no complaints," Lal said.
Former India captain Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi will be elected president of ICPA.
With the launch over, Lal said, efforts would now be made to register it and hold democratic elections at regular intervals.
The ICPA will hold a charity dinner on Thursday to raise funds. Several former and present players will auction their cricket gear and other memorabilia.
Mail Cricket Editor
