Former captain of the Indian team, Rahul Dravid, Head of National Cricket Academy’s Cricket Operations received a notice from BCCI’s Ethics Officer on particular Conflict of Interest allegations levelled against him. BCCI’s Ombudsman-cum-Ethics Officer Justice (Retd) DK Jain has sent a notice after a complaint from MPCA life member Sanjeev Gupta.
As per Gupta’s complaint, Dravid is supposedly conflicted as he is the NCA Director and is also the vice-president of India Cements group, owner of IPL franchise CSK.
DK Justice told PTI, “Yes, I have sent a notice to Mr. Rahul Dravid last week after receiving a complaint. He has been given two weeks to reply to the allegations of Conflict of Interest. Based on his reply, I will decide whether to proceed further or not.”
Rahul Dravid is anticipated to file his reply by 16 August. He may also have to appear for an in-person hearing if necessary.
Earlier, Gupta had also filed a similar Conflict of Interest complaints against former cricketers Sachin Tendulkar and VVS Laxman for their dual role as Cricket Advisory Committee as well as mentors of their respective IPL franchises. However, the two had refused of any conflicts whatsoever. Tendulkar, in actuality stated in his affidavit that he didn’t take a penny from Mumbai Indians for his services.
Tendulkar had made it clear that he wouldn’t continue unless he was given a proper Terms of Reference, and Laxman in his reply suggested that if his role of mentor was found to be conflicted with his responsibilities as CAC member, he was ready to quit.
Sourav Ganguly had also faced Conflict of Interest allegations levelled by Bhaswati Santua for being CAB president as well as the mentor of Delhi Capitals. The CAC later became obsolete and a new one was formed headed by the 1983 World Cup winning captain Kapil Dev along with Shantha Rangaswamy and Anshuman Gaekwad.