Ranji Trophy: Here’s why BCCI selector Devang Gandhi was removed from Bengal dressing room at Eden Gardens
BCCI selector Devang Gandhi was removed from Bengal dressing room due to breach of anti-corruption protocol. The incident happened at Eden Gardens stadium in Kolkata
FollowKolkata: BCCI selector Devang Gandhi was ejected from the Bengal dressing room as per anti-corruption protocol during the hosts’ Ranji Trophy game against Andhra at Kolkata’s Eden Gardens on Thursday (December 26).
As per protocol, only players, support staff and other officials authorised to be in the PMOA (Players and Match Officials Area) can be in the designated areas including the dressing room.
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According to Bengal batsman Manoj Tiwary, Gandhi had breached anti-corruption protocol and he brought it to BCCI anti-corruption official Soumen Karmakar’s notice.
“We have to follow what is contained in the anti-corruption protocol. A national selector cannot get in the dressing room without authorisation. Only the players and officials who have their mug-shots at the entrance can get access in the dressing room,” Tiwary said.
Gandhi defended himself and said he was there after Bengal coach Arun Lal had “invited” him. “I had absolutely followed each and every protocol. I was invited by Bengal coach Arun Lal to the dressing room. He was my first captain. I had a back issue, so I took permission and asked the Bengal physio to come to the medical room. But Manoj seemed to have issues with it," Gandhi told news agency PTI.
In a statement, Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB), said, “Mr. Devang Gandhi, being a National Selector, wanted to enter the Dressing Rooms area today when the game was not in play. He was allowed to enter the PMOA area as a temporary visitor by the ACU Official only after obtaining necessary permission from the Match Referee.
“However, when Mr. Gandhi wanted to get some medical treatment done and the same was informed to the ACU officer, he was instantly asked by the ACU officer to get the same done at the Medical Room outside the PMOA area in order to maintain the required protocols. Accordingly, Mr. Gandhi moved to the Medical Room forthwith to ensure there is no breach.”
