Legendary cricketer Barry Richards launched a scathing attack on the Board of Control for Cricket in India, saying it has transformed the game for commercial interests by its sheer money power.
The former South Africa opener said the recent changes in rules was also a result of commercialization and BCCI has to be blamed much for it.
Asked if ICC should do something to sort out the problem, Richards replied: "No, not ICC, but BCCI, because I feel it is the BCCI who is running the show in world cricket. It is (BCCI) from where all the money comes from.
"Cricket is now played for money. Only few at the top posts in ICC or BCCI have been involved with high level of cricket.
"Perhaps they have certain other things like power and recognition in their minds rather than cricket. They have to compromise on many issues because of several factors," he said.
Richards said the time is not far when bowlers will become an extinct species because of money-driven policies of cricket administrators.
"Batting and fielding is on the rise but I am worried for the bowlers. The game has become too much batsmen-oriented. The fast outfields, field restrictions and flat tracks are all in favour of batsmen," he added.
"See, even in your country millions would like to emulate Sachin (Tendulkar) but no one would like to become like (Javagal) Srinath."
