In what could add more fire to already burning Indian Premier League issue, today in an emergency meeting of the Indian Premier League’s Governing Council, the BCCI scrapped Rajasthan Royals and Kings XI Punjab and terminated the contracts with these two teams.
BCCI secretary N Srinivasan said “It was unanimously decided that the Franchise agreements with KPH Dream Cricket Pvt. Ltd. and Jaipur IPL Cricket Pvt. Ltd. be terminated forthwith, based on the legal opinions obtained by BCCI in the matters.”
The reason cited for this termination are the irregularities during the period of their contract and severe breach of terms and conditions of IPL franchise agreement.
On the other hand IPL Kochi got yet another chance to solve the issue as soon as possible so that they can participate in IPL-4.
“It was further unanimously decided to issue a notice to the Unincorporated Joint Venture holding the Kochi franchise calling upon them to resolve all their disputes and form a joint venture company which will hold the IPL franchise rights,” the BCCI said.
According to some news sources, the BCCI has acted after legal opinion from the Attorney General of India as Rajasthan Royals and Kings XI are alleged to have been involved in serious breaches as per the reports from the Enforcement Directorate, the IT and Ministry of Corporate Affairs and also has also violated FEMA.
This news spread like fire in the jungle and many people were shocked with the decision of BCCI. Shilpa Shetty said that she was too shocked to react and just disheartened because it was more than just a team for all of them. Rajasthan Royals captain Shane Warne also expressed his shock after listening to this news. Preity Zinta also expressed her shock and dismay. Vijay Mallya said “I wonder if IPL franchisees are serious stakeholders whose investments in participation are respected or are they slaves who only come and play.”