Aakash Chopra Comes Out In Support Of Suresh Raina As The Latter Urges BCCI To Allow To Play In Foreign T20 Leagues

Out of favor Indian batsman Suresh Raina has been quite vocal these days on a variety of issues. Raina has recently come up with the suggestion that the Board of Control for Cricket in India [BCCI] show allow the non-contracted Indian players to participate in foreign leagues.

According to the BCCI’s current policy, none of the Indian players- contracted or otherwise- cannot participate in any foreign T20 tournament, unless they announce their announcement from Indian cricket including the IPL.

“I hope the BCCI can get together with the ICC or with franchises and allow players who don’t have BCCI contracts to play in overseas leagues,” Suresh Raina was quoted as saying by cricket.com.au.

Also Read: Suresh Raina Hits Back At MSK Prasad After Latter’s Comment About His India Axing

Aakash Chopra has echoed Suresh Raina’s suggestion

Former Indian opener-turned commentator Aakash Chopra has now come out in support of Raina. According to Chopra, non-contracted Indian players should be encouraged to play in foreign leagues.

“I strongly feel that players without a central contract should be encouraged to play in foreign T20 Leagues. Bhajji (Harbhajan Singh) should go play in CPL, (Suresh) Raina should take part in BBL if he wants. Those who do not play first-class should be allowed to go (participate in foreign T20 leagues),” he said.

The BCCI, however, has indicated that there would be no change in its current stance.

“One usually finds these views emanating from those who can see the wall of retirement approaching and it’s only natural. That’s their view. It’s the luxury of having the freedom of a tunnel vision with a view to further their own interests and that’s absolutely fine. From the point of view of the board and the interests of Indian cricket, the intent is to ensure a system where the non-contracted players are able to command good value at the IPL auction. Exclusivity is the key,” a BCCI official told IANS.

The BCCI has been very firm in its stance on not allowing its players to play in foreign leagues. Earlier this year, Pravin Tambe was disqualified from the 2020 IPL following his involvement in the T10 League.

Last year, Yuvraj Singh announced his retirement from Indian cricket in order to participate in Global Canada T20 while Harbhajan Singh had to pull out from the ‘Hundred’ draft.

Also Read: BCCI Official Responds After Suresh Raina, Irfan Pathan Urge Board To Allow Players To Participate In Overseas Leagues

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