ICC WC 2019: India's squad to be selected on April 15 in Mumbai

The Indian squad for the ICC World Cup will be selected on April 15 in Mumbai, the CoA decided on Monday (April 8). The Committee of Administrators (CoA) along with three BCCI office bearers met in the Capital to discuss various issues related to IPL and Cricket Operations. The last date for announcing the World Cup squads is April 23 but BCCI has decided to announce it eight days prior to the scheduled date. The World Cup will begin on May 30 in the United Kingdom.

While Indian team’s World Cup preparations are on right track with only a couple of slots up for grabs, the formidable Chennai Super Kings team might feel a bit uncomfortable after BCCI zeroed in on Hyderabad as the stand by venue for the May 12 final. The issue of the three empty stands — I, J and K — at the Chepauk has been an issue since 2012 and whenever Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) has organised matches (IPL or international), the three stands have remained out of bounds for the spectators as the local municipal corporation has not provided a fit certificate.

Meanwhile, the CoA also decided on the format of the mini Women’s IPL which will be played with three teams. There will be four games instead of the odd-exhibition match played last year. “The matches will be held at 8 pm which is also TV prime time for men’s matches. One game will be held in Visakhapatnam and other games will be in all likelihood held in Bengaluru,” said a source.

It was also learnt that CoA has asked the steering committee of Players’ Association to expedite process of formation of the body. “The Players’ Association is expected to take shape in next two weeks. The four member committee has been told to expedite process,” an official said. The BCCI has also decided to invite fresh tender for title sponsorship of domestic tournaments and international games in India. “It will be a fresh process but PayTm can also bid but just like new bidders.” Even BCCI’s PR company AdFactors’ contract with the board has come to an end and they will have to show ‘Expression of Interest’ (EOI) and again apply through proper process.

The BCCI will be getting ₹2.09 crore from Cricket Australia after reconciliation of accounts for the past 10 years. “There have been discussions on accounts settlements over all the past bilateral series between India and Australia. The discussions are still on. The office bearers will again meet the CoA on April 20,” a BCCI official said.