The Hindu : Sport / Cricket : An opportunity to serve the game: Kapil

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Wednesday, Jul 25, 2007
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An opportunity to serve the game: Kapil

Special Correspondent

NEW DELHI: “It is our effort to provide youngsters with a platform to rub shoulders with some of the great players in the game,” was how Kapil Dev described the association of some of the past players with the Indian Cricket League (ICL).

With Brian Lara lending support to the ICL and some more big names expected to join soon, the floodlit venture at venues across the country was all set to take off in September. The only hitch, however, being availability of grounds.

“We are working in that direction and hope to sort out the issue soon. We would have good grounds,” said Kapil, who is the chairman of the ICL.

No confrontation

Denying that the ICL was on a path of confrontation with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Kapil asserted, “It is wrong to say that we are trying to establish a parallel league. There is no truth in suggesting that we are trying to take on the BCCI.”

What then was the motive of launching this venture? Kapil was forthright, “As former players we see this as an opportunity to serve cricket. Is there any harm if some of the young players get to establish themselves by playing in the ICL?

It is a competition that will highlight some of the talent in the country. We are not trying to establish any parallel system. We have also served the game and now feel that we can associate ourselves by helping the youngsters.”

Money issue

Kapil did not agree with allegations that money was the only factor that was luring players to the ICL.

“It is an exciting venture and I am sure the players understand the merit of playing in the ICL. In the process, if they get good contracts and make some money, what is the harm? They not playing cricket just to earn some extra money. They essentially play to earn glory for the country and in the process they also entertain their fans.”

In Kapil’s opinion, the ICL would attract some of the big names in the game. There are indications that some recently-retired cricketers from overseas are expected to bring glamour to the ICL.

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