CIC to take steps after Ranji debacle

MUMBAI: To understand the reasons behind Mumbai’s debacle in the Ranji Trophy this season, the Cricket Improvement Committee (CIC) of the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) held one-onone sessions with the selectors, the coaching staff and the senior players on Friday.

The discussion with CIC — comprising of Amol Muzumdar, Kiran Mokashi, Raju Kulkarni and Sahil Kukreja — revolved around the dismal season and what could be the necessary steps that are needed to be taken to improve Mumbai cricket. Mumbai coach Vinayak Samant said it was a fruitful meeting and he made numerous suggestions to take Mumbai cricket forward. “Some of the suggestions I made were like how we have to look at players doing well in club cricket as well and not just the under-23 team. Also, give confidence to the coaches, players and back the decisions they take,” said Samant.

Former India pacer Kulkarni said: “We met everybody in a very positive way. The meeting was not to put the blame on one particular person or aspect but try and understand the reasons behind the debacle and what measure can be taken.”

He added: “We also took into account that the preparation for the season wasn’t ideal as well with all those administrative issues hampering the build-up to the campaign.”

Kulkarni informed that they will meet next week to finalise the best way forward after putting together the views of various parties involved.

Former India medium-pacer Karsan Ghavri, who till recently was heading the CIC, had resigned in the morning citing personal reasons.

“I’ve resigned because of personal reasons. I’ve nothing against the MCA or against the committee members. I’ve Whatsapped my resignation to the MCA this morning, and will send a formal letter on Monday or Tuesday,” Ghavri said.