Lalu’s doosra: Railway grounds for rebel League

The railways minister describes ICL as a “good initiative" and says he is ready to allow ICL matches to be played in Railways' stadiums, reports HT.

Railway Minister Lalu Prasad batted for the Indian Cricket League (ICL) on Thursday, as the League’s officials came down heavily on the BCCI’s statement warning players against aligning with the league.

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Prasad, head of the Bihar Cricket Association, said the ICL was a “good initiative” and he was ready to allow its tournaments to be played in railway stadiums for a reasonable fee.

“It will lead to competition and encourage good players. The League is a good thing for those players who complain they are not selected or ignored,” the minister said.

It remains to be seen what stand the BCCI is going to take on the Railways, a dominant force in Ranji Trophy. BCCI Chief Administrative Officer Ratnakar Shetty said: “The board has decided not to comment on the issue since yesterday’s statement was very clear.” The Railways’ affiliation with the BCCI will now be under threat and the matter will be discussed at the board’s SGM on August 21.

Gaurav Seth, VP, ICL, said: “I welcome the support shown by him (Lalu).”

With inputs from Amol Karhadkar