Ranchi could replace Delhi as venue for second T20 between India and Sri Lanka

The Board of Cricket Control of India has sent an email to the Delhi & District Cricket Associations (DDCA) questioning their capabilities to host the second T20 international between India and Sri Lanka on February 12.

The mail was sent by BCCI Secretary Anurag Thakur, who claimed DDCA was yet to garner the required clearances to host the match. Earlier DDCA patron Manjit Singh had told the BCCI that all pre-requisite clearanaces were acquired, and that every aspect was being looked into. However, on checking, Thakur found that the work was yet to be completed.

DDCA treasurer Ravindra Manchanda confirmed that the board had received such an email. He said, “Mr Thakur was under the impression that we had already gotten the clearances, which we haven't. We are yet to reply to that email, and we won't until we meet our deadline. Unfortunately, some people from within the DDCA informed him that we already had our required cerficiates.”

Justic Mukesh Mudgal, who will be supervising the DDCA governed matches, didn't seem very convinced. He said, “If the DDCA want to host the match, they must comply with the BCCI's wants. I am aware of the situation and will be looking to the matter.”

A source within DDCA stated that the confusion was created, due to Singh's ignorance. He stated, “We will be creating a nine member team for the T20 World Cup, which will not include certain members involved in this matter. Also, losing this particular T20 will be really harmful for us as it would act as preparation for the World Cup, we are trying our level best to garner those certificates.”

According to sources close to BCCI, Ranchi has been asked to stand-by as a replacement for the match. This is not the first time the DDCA has been unable to deliver on BCCI's promises. The fourth Test between India and South Africa was almost cancelled, as they failed to get the permission on time. However, a ad-hoc committee had nullified the matter.