Wave of optimism in ICL camp | Cricket - Hindustan Times
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Wave of optimism in ICL camp

Hindustan Times | ByAnam Arsalan, Hyderabad
Oct 14, 2008 11:39 PM IST

There was optimism in the air the moment it was known that the Board of Control for Cricket in India had decided to hold discussions with the ICL officials, reports Anam Arsalan.

There was optimism in the air the moment it was known that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had decided to hold discussions with the Indian Cricket League (ICL) officials.

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ICL executive board member Kiran More said, "It certainly is very good news for us and I hope the BCCI adopts a positive attitude towards the whole situation."

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On the issue of "authorised unofficial cricket" status, More said, "Yes, I am aware of it. Even if our league is sanctioned under this rule, it will help our boys. They will, at least, get an opportunity to play domestic cricket and that is what is important for us."

More hoped that the latest development might make other boards take a lenient stand on the issue and, instead of banning their player, they might just consider them for selection.

ICL business head Himanshu Mody too welcomed the decision saying, "We hope the outcome of the discussions benefits players."

However, ICL executive board member Bharat Reddy took a cautious approach.

"It certainly is a good development, but we have to wait and watch, for nothing can be said till the meeting gets over."

Former Bangladesh skipper, Habibul Bashar, who is currently leading the Dhaka Warriors in the second season of the ICL, welcomed the move saying, "This is a terrific development, I am very excited at the prospect of the meeting. If the differences are resolved, it will be in the best interest of not only the ICL cricketers but cricketers all over the world. Then we will have a choice."

Royal Bengal Tigers player, Abhishek Jhunjhunwala, who delivered a standout fielding performance against Lahore Badshahs on Sunday, looked visibly happy.

"It's too exciting a prospect for me to give a comprehensive reaction. If this happens, the game of cricket will be the biggest beneficiary. I seriously hope that something positive comes out of it."

Delhi Giants all-rounder J.P. Yadav said, "If the BCCI gives ICL the nod, it would mean a lot of opportunities for us. At the moment, we are hardly playing any cricket apart from T20 matches. What I really want is to play four-day matches, as that's what we are missing out on. I am really keen on playing the Ranji Trophy, and if all goes well, I might just be able to do that.

For Hyderabad Heroes' Inder Shekar Reddy, the meeting couldn't have come at a better time. "I was missing the company of my friends playing in the domestic circuit. God willing, I would be able to play with them again."

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