ICL files petition against BCCI

The Indian Cricket League (ICL) has filed a petition in the Delhi High Court to restrain the Indian board from "claiming to the public that they represent India".

The ICL has also contended that the BCCI cannot "threaten" players and deny the pensions of former cricketers who have joined the league, or prevent the unofficial league to use cricket stadiums across the country. It has also stated that the BCCI cannot prevent the ICL from using the name of the country or from using the national flag.

A day after the ICL announced its list of players, the BCCI barred the Indian players on the ICL's roster from playing any BCCI-recognised tournaments. Previously the board had clarified its stand on current and former players joining the ICL when it issued a statement saying: "Every individual has a right to choose whether he wishes to associate himself with the BCCI or any other organisation. However, if he associates himself with any other organisation, he will not derive any benefit or be connected to any of our activities in any way."

The matter is expected to come up for hearing on Monday.

The board's reaction was cautious. "What you say is news to me", vice-president Shashank Manohar told PTI. "If they (ICL) have gone to court and if we are sent a notice, then in that case we will attend the court and say what we want to."