State cricket body accepts Lalit Modi’s resignation
Former IPL chairman Lalit Modi’s 15-year-long journey in cricket world came to an end Wednesday with Nagaur District Cricket Association (NDCA) accepting his resignation. This marks an end to his presence in the Rajasthan Cricket body, which was banned by the BCCI for allowing him in its fold.
Modi was elected NDCA president in 2002. The 50-year-old, who left India after being charged with money laundering, had on August 12 sent his resignation to both the RCA and the BCCI.
“Lalit Modi has been relieved of all the responsibilities of NDCA. Bhawani Singh, who is the vice president of the NDCA, will act as interim president till the next elections are held,” Rajendra Nandu, secretary NDCA said.
Credited for creating the cashrich IPL in 2008, Modi was expelled from the BCCI in 2010. Living in exile in London and facing an Enforcement Directorate inquiry for financial violations, Modi had refused to let go of his position in the RCA, prompting the BCCI to altogether ban the association.
In his resignation letter Modi had claimed that during his association with RCA “world class infrastructure (for cricket) was created in the state.”
Modi requested the BCCI to release the funds meant for the RCA after his resignation. “I believe it (funds) was blocked precisely because of my presence. With my exit from all forms of cricket, at all levels, forever, I think RCA deserves to reclaim their share and presence on the Indian cricket map,” he said in the letter.
His 22-year-old son Ruchir had unsuccessfully contested the RCA presidential elections earlier this year.
The IPL team Rajasthan Royals (RR) — set to make a comeback in the tournament after serving a two-year ban — was not allowed to play any of their ‘home’ matches in the state in last three years.
The RCA also did not get any funds from the BCCI. The state cricket board can now hope to return in the BCCI fold and claim the grants.