BCCI, Asia Cup 2018, Rahul Johri
Rahul Johri. Image Courtesy: Getty

Admittedly, the presence of Virat Kohli in the Indian team is a massive boost for the fans to visit the stadiums or stick to their television sets. Unfortunately, Asia Cup 2018 missed the stalwart’s presence. Meanwhile, the broadcasters and ACC officials aren’t happy with the BCCI’s decision to give him the rest.

Virat Kohli has been the massive figure in India. His presence itself makes the environment energetic with fans showing their happiness to greet him. With Virat Kohli missing the Asia Cup 2018, a section of his fans might lose their interest in watching the games which would affect the broadcasters.

Virat Kohli’s absence is a severe dent to us – ACC development manager

The development manager of ACC, Thusith Perera quoted the announcement of Virat Kohli’s absence before 15 days of the tournament is a massive loss for the broadcasters. He feels Virat Kohli is one of the greatest batsmen in the world and his absence makes an enormous impact.

Virat Kohli, Asia Cup 2018, Four Players
Virat Kohli rested for Asia Cup 2018 (Photo Credit: Getty Images)

Meanwhile, the broadcaster wrote a letter to ACC complaining them over the non-participation of the best players in the team. It is also clear the MRA (Media Rights Agreement) obligation reads each team should send their best team.

“In our view, the announcement of the absence of one of the world’s best batsmen from the Asia Cup, only 15 days before the commencement of the Asia Cup, is a severe dent to us (event broadcaster) and will severely impact our ability to monetise and generate revenue for the tournament,” the email stated.

However, the reply from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) isn’t a fruitful one for the officials of ACC or Broadcasters. BCCI was harsh in their reply which asked everyone to not involve in the selection process.

Selection is the sole prerogative of BCCI – Rahul Johri

Rahul Johri, BCCI, ACC, Broadcasters
Rahul Johri (credits – AFP)

In reply to the concern, the BCCI CEO, Rahul Johri said the selection of an individual player of the team is a sole exemption of the respective board, and there is no scope for any other to showcase their green signals.

“Please note that selection of the best available team for participation in a tournament is the sole prerogative of BCCI. It is not open for ACC or its broadcaster to insist on a selection of any particular player and/or to question the expertise of any selection committee as to which is the best available team for the particular tournament,” Johri further wrote.

However, Virat Kohli’s absence is a severe loss to the broadcasters. Meanwhile, it is essential for the Indian management to look after the workload issues of their best players at present.

Read More  Rishabh Pant blames this player after Delhi Capitals' loss vs Rajasthan Royals

I just love what I script. Over the years, Cricket has been my passion and crisping articles on it gives me an immense pleasure...Cheers...!!!