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DDCA Officials Surinder Khanna, Ashu Dani Face Removal Over Tainted IHPL Involvement
Major developments are expected within the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) as two prominent figures, former India wicketkeeper Surinder Khanna and ex-Delhi player Ashu Dani, face imminent removal from their posts.
Their potential ousting stems from their alleged involvement in the controversial Indian Heaven Premier League (IHPL), a cricket tournament played in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) that abruptly ended amid accusations of impropriety.
The IHPL Controversy Unfolds
The IHPL, despite featuring renowned international stars like Chris Gayle and Praveen Kumar, quickly descended into chaos. The league was suspended mid-way through after its organizers reportedly fled.
This dramatic exit left a trail of unpaid dues, stranding cricketers in hotels as management awaited clearance of their outstanding payments. The entire episode cast a significant shadow over the league’s credibility.
Roles and Allegations: Khanna and Dani’s Involvement
Ashu Dani, currently the chief junior selector for the DDCA, was named the president of the IHPL. Surinder Khanna, a member of the DDCA’s cricket advisory committee (CAC), served as a mentor in the league.
The involvement of these senior DDCA officials in an unapproved league has raised serious questions about conflict of interest and adherence to cricketing regulations.
DDCA’s Firm Stance and Looming Action
A top DDCA official confirmed that stringent action is on the cards. “There’s a criminal case filed against Dani. It is expected he will resign himself although he claims he is innocent. Or else DDCA will have to think of another action,” the official told TOI.
For Khanna, his role in the CAC, which primarily involved recommending names for selection committees and coaches for the season, is largely concluded. “His job was to recommend names for these jobs. He is unlikely to be involved further in the season,” the official added.
The DDCA had previously released a stern statement underlining its position on such unauthorized affiliations.
DDCA’s Official Warning: A Zero-Tolerance Policy
The DDCA’s statement serves as a clear warning to all stakeholders, emphasizing the importance of ethical conduct and transparency. It outlines strict guidelines regarding participation in unapproved sporting events.
Key points from the DDCA’s advisory include:
- All stakeholders, including players, coaches, support staff, and match officials, must refrain from associating with or participating in any unapproved, unauthorized, or unrecognized leagues, matches, or tournaments.
- This rule applies irrespective of whether the event is held within the state or elsewhere.
- Individuals are expected to disclose any such relationships or potential conflicts of interest immediately.
- They must ensure that no such conflict persists or subsists and must cease any unauthorized association without delay.
The association further stressed its commitment to taking appropriate action against any individual found in violation of these guidelines. “Needless to say that in case of any such unauthorised association, conduct or possible conflict comes to the notice of the DDCA, appropriate action shall be taken against the individual,” the statement concluded.
Conclusion: Upholding Integrity in Cricket
The unfolding situation with Surinder Khanna and Ashu Dani highlights the DDCA’s resolve to maintain integrity and prevent conflicts of interest within its cricketing ecosystem. It sends a strong message to all associated personnel about the serious repercussions of involvement in unapproved leagues.
As Indian cricket continues to grow, such actions by governing bodies are crucial to ensure transparency and uphold the spirit of the game, safeguarding players and the sport from tainted associations.
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