BCCI accuses Smith, then changes its mind

Defusing the tension over the Decision Review System, the Board of Control for Cricket in India has withdrawn the complaint filed against Australia captain Steve Smith with the International Cricket Council. The compromise was reached after a meeting between the CEOs of the two Boards, BCCI’s Rahul Johri and CA’s Mr James Suterland at the BCCI eadquarters in Mumbai on Thursday. In a joint press statement, by the CCI and CA, they said: “The BCCI and CA have resolved o restore ocus on the ongoing series amidst he increased attention towards ssues which ave ema- nated during the course of the 2nd Test match in Bangalore.”

“Subsequently, BCCI will withdraw the complaint filed with ICC with an expectation that the two captains will meet prior to the Ranchi Test and commit to lead their teams by example and play the rest of the series, in the right spirit, demonstrating that the players from both teams are true ambassadors for their respective countries.

Johri and Sutherland discussed the matters at length and agreed the importance of bring focus ing back the to the game and the much anticipated next Test match in Ranchi.

Sutherland said: “A series between India and Australia is bound to generate considerable excitement for fans in both the countries. On the field the two teams are fierce competitors who represent their countries with pride. As we have seen this week in Bangalore, with so much at stake, tensions can bubble over. We are half way through what has already been a riveting series - and there is still much to look forward to. In discussing the relevant issues in depth, we have agreed that it is in the best interests of the game to put these differences aside and clear the way for the focus to be on the cricket, and the remaining matches of the series.

Johri said: “We believe that the focus of the teams and the joy they provide to the fans, should not be diluted and it is imperative to ensure that the rest of the series, which promises a great cricketing contest, not be compromised.”

The Board had earlier lodged a complaint despite the ICC issuing a statement which made it clear that no further action will be taken against either India skipper Virat Kohli or Smith.

JOHRI AND SUTHERLAND AGREED THE IMPORTANCE OF BRINGING BACK THE FOCUS TO THE GAME AND THE NEXT TEST MATCH IN RANCHI