BCCI says “NO” to Twenty20

The BCCI has further strained its relationship with world cricket’s governing body, the ICC, as it has stated that it will not participate in the proposed Twenty20 World Championship.

Seeking to cash in on the huge popularity of the super-shortened form of the game, the ICC’s chief executive approved the event when it met last week, and will seek clearance from the executive board when it meets next month.

Secretary of the BCCI, Niranjan Shah stated that there is no benefit in India participating in Twenty20 cricket, as One Day International cricket is still such a sensational success in that part of the world. The Indian board now looks to gather support from other Asian nations – Sri Lanka, Pakistan and Bangladesh – and has already received the endorsement of the Pakistan Cricket Board.

This announcement is the latest in the BCCI’s recent initiatives to further India’s game at the risk of non-compliance with the plans of the ICC.

India will host the Champions Trophy later this year but the board has suggested that the team may not participate in the event in the future, as it is perceived as unnecessary. India also postponed a series with New Zealand and has come to agreements with the leading Test nations, including Australia, to play more frequently, as opposed to the ICC schedule of the FTP (Future Tours Plan).