Trinamool Accuses BJP of Denying Sourav Ganguly a Second Term in BCCI Due to His Refusal to Join BJP
In a surprising turn of events, Sourav Ganguly, the former Indian cricket captain and current BCCI President, is rumoured to be stepping down from his position in October 2022. His potential successor, Jay Shah, is expected to replace him, should no other candidate come forward for the position.
The news of Ganguly's exit has sparked a series of allegations and counter-allegations, with the Trinamool Congress claiming it to be an instance of political vendetta. The party alleges that the BJP attempted to swear in Ganguly into its party, an accusation the BJP denies.
Ganguly, known for his steerage in cricket management, has confined himself to cricket-related roles, avoiding any involvement in national politics. However, rumours of a dinner he held with BJP national vice-president Dilip Ghosh have fueled speculation.
Ghosh, in response, has suggested that the BJP did not try to induct Ganguly into the party and has described the allegations against the party as "baseless." He has also urged the Trinamool Congress to stop politicizing the changes in BCCI.
The Trinamool speaker, on the other hand, suggests that politics might be behind Ganguly not getting a second term as BCCI President, implying it is the BJP's responsibility to respond to such allegations. Trinamool MP Santanu Sen has expanded his support to Ganguly, adding weight to these claims.
Meanwhile, Ganguly's potential successor, Jay Shah, is expected to take over as India's representative at the ICC Board. The BJP, in response to accusations of political favouritism, has called these claims unjustified.
Amidst this controversy, Roger Binny, a member of the 1983 World Cup winning team, has filed his nomination for the position of BCCI President and is likely to get the top job unopposed. The future of Indian cricket administration remains uncertain, with politics playing a significant role in the ongoing developments.