‘BD Test will be conducted smoothly’

How smoothly will be the one-off Test match between Bangladesh and India scheduled to start on 9 February at the Rajiv Gandhi stadium in southern Indian city of Hyderabad conducted?

This question is being discussed in the corridors of cricket in Hyderabad as there is no recognized body governing the Hyderabad Cricket Association, reports our New Delhi correspondent.

Elections to HCA had been held but the results have not been declared due to a court order. Besides, there is the fund shortage facing HCA which is the local host of the Test match. But Ratnakar Shetty, Indian cricket Board’s General Manager (game development), today assured the cricket fans that the Test would be conducted smoothly.

Shetty said he has been entrusted by the Board with the responsibility of ensuring smooth conduct of the Test against Bangladesh in Hyderabad keeping in mind the uncertainty in HCA. "Basically to coordinate the smooth conduct of the Test match," Shetty told the media when asked about the reason for this specific appointment.

The decision was taken by BCCI CEO Rahul Johri, empowering Shetty to even, if needed, take the Test out of Hyderabad. The Test is scheduled to be organised from February 9 to 13.

The Indian Cricket Board's problems were compounded by the lack of funds at HCA which has already shot off a letter to the Indian Cricket Board, seeking grants. In a letter a few weeks ago, the HCA had stated that it would struggle to hold the game if funds were not sanctioned.

The letter, dated 5 January , had said that "in this connection, we shall be highly obliged, if you can kindly advise about the financials as non-receipt of funds would lead to a serious disruption in the conduct of the Test Match and also other ongoing domestic BCCI Matches. Furthermore, to run the day-to-day affairs/activities, we require money as we have not received funds from BCCI so far."