Published: Jan 26, 2019, 10:25 AM (IST)
Edited: Jan 26, 2019, 10:25 AM (IST)
Committee of Administrators (CoA) head Vinod Rai feels that India cricketers Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul have suffered commensurate punishments with regards to their controversial remarks during a TV show and revealed that it’s one of the reasons why their suspensions have been lifted.
In a major relief on Thursday, the suspension imposed on Pandya and Rahul revoked with immediate effect. Later on, while Pandya was asked to join the India squad in New Zealand, Rahul was added to India A squad which will play England Lions in five one-day matches in Thiruvananthapuram.
Talking about why CoA decided to take the decision, Rai said, “My decision to withdraw (the suspension) was because it was becoming uncertain, that is point number one,” Rai told Mumbai Mirror. Number two, it was hurting the team morale.
He continued, “They have not played five matches (including Saturday’s ODI). The punishment they have undergone is commensurate with whatever they have done. That’s enough. Actually, I had gone on record saying we should suspend them for two matches.”
The Supreme Court had tentatively listed February 5 as the date for the next BCCI hearing putting the duo’s return to cricket in further limbo.
“When the suspension was ordered, it was only by the CoA. When we decided to withdraw, I have said in the order, it was in concurrence with the learned Amicus. I told them on Thursday morning (after it was found that the Supreme Court will hear the case only on February 5) that we should withdraw,” Rai revealed.
