Let us look at some of the most-discussed cricket stories on the news on 31 July.
PCB shows displeasure over BCCI ‘interference’ in KPL
The PCB showed its displeasure over reports of the BCCI calling multiple ICC Members and forcing them to withdraw their retired cricketers from the Kashmir Premier League. The PCB claimed it was a breach of ‘international norms and the spirit of the gentleman's game by interfering in internal affairs of cricket boards’.
Herschelle Gibbs tweeted that the BCCI had warned him against taking part in the KPL: ‘Completely unnecessary of the BCCI to bring their political agenda with Pakistan into the equation and trying to prevent me playing in the KPL 20. Also threatening me saying they won't allow me entry into India for any cricket related work. Ludicrous’.
The six-team KPL is likely to take place in Pakistan, in August.
Afghanistan chief selector steps down after criticizing ACB
As per an ESPNCricinfo report, Afghanistan Cricket Board selection committee head Asadullah Khan resigned from his position. He claimed that the national squad for the upcoming ‘home’ ODI series against Pakistan, was finalised without his nod.
Asadullah sent across his resignation letter to ACB chairman Farhan Yusefzai on 24 July. He cited ‘too much interruption’ and interference from ‘non-cricketers’ in the board, who have ‘no knowledge about the players and selection’ as the main reasons for his decision.
His decision came a day after Afghanistan’s 17-member squad was named for the Pakistan series. It will be the first bilateral ODI series between the two sides.
Udana retires from international cricket
Isuru Udana has announced retirement from international cricket. Udana conveyed his decision to SLC through a letter on 30 July. He played 35 T20Is and 21 ODIs for Sri Lanka since making his international debut for Sri Lanka, taking 27 and 18 scalps respectively.
Though he will continue to play domestic cricket and franchise tournaments, which will start with the CPL, later in August.
CSA dismisses ex acting CEO Kugandrie Govender
Cricket South Africa dismissed acting CEO Kugandrie Govender with immediate effect, reported ESPNCricinfo. Govender had been suspended since December 2020, four months after former CEO Thabang Moroe was fired over allegations of misconduct.
Govender was under CSA’s scrutiny for revoking the accreditation of journalists in December 2019, which breached the Companies’ Act. She was also involved in the dismissal of Clive Eksteen, former head of sales and sponsorships. Eksteen’s sacking was later ruled unfair. Govender was finally found guilty after more than seven months.