Former India opener Anshuman Gaekwad said ICA will look after the domestic level players’ security, their future as well. Even Sourav Ganguly who became the new president of BCCI has also said he will look after the first-class cricketers.
“The ICA will be the bridge between the BCCI administrators, cricketers and cricket,” Gaekwad told The Hindu. “Probably they get enough when they are playing. Everybody cannot play for India. Junior and First Class cricket is equally important, players have sacrificed a lot. They have been part of the system, they, players of my time and before, have contributed to the development of the game in India. They have to be looked after in some way or the other.”
“To what extent, that needs to be discussed. The bottom line is they have to be made comfortable in the context of medical assistance, pension, match fee etc. I don’t think it will be much of a burden on the BCCI. A percentage of money needs to be set aside,” he added.
In ICA, one-third of the members will be former players, and Gaekwad thinks that there is a lot of work need to be done for the players.
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“It’s a good thing. There will be a lot more thinking from the cricketers’ side. It was all about administration so far, now there will be balance between the two, administration and cricket. The BCCI needs to address issues; and with Sourav being there and Shanta and myself, we will understand things better, more practically,” he added.
Although, there have been talks to get contracts for the players from their state associations. But Gaekwad said it will take some time coming.
“Firstly the States have to give accounts of the money they receive from the BCCI. Where is that money being spent… for development of cricket, cricketers, etc. The moment that accountability comes, all these things about contracts for players will start, and other facilities. Accountability will reveal if the money from the BCCI is used the way it should be and for the purpose. That should be found out,” he added.
“I agree with Sourav totally. Cricketers know only one thing and that’s cricket. They can coach and consult. That’s their living. Yes,conflict of interest, I don’t see everything as bad. But one cannot stop his son playing or coaching because he is in the BCCI. In one shot you are taking away the employment of families,” he concluded.
