When questioned by Hindustan Times, Graeme Smith acknowledged that, despite the BCCI rule, he remains optimistic about MS Dhoni’s association with the league and has opened the door for his arrival.
Before the start of the season last month, Cricket South Africa’s new league, SA20, Commissioner Graeme Smith made it clear that Indian players’ participation in the league is “BCCI’s prerogative.”
Indian cricket boards have maintained a strict “no” policy for their players despite overseas cricket boards allowing their players to participate in leagues around the world.
A player will only be able to join foreign leagues if all ties with the BCCI and Indian cricket are severed. Only retired stars will have this opportunity, and they have taken advantage of it over the years.
Before the start of the season last month, Cricket South Africa’s new league, SA20, Commissioner Graeme Smith made it clear that Indian players’ participation in the league is “BCCI’s prerogative.”
Indian cricket boards have maintained a strict “no” policy for their players despite overseas cricket boards allowing their players to participate in leagues around the world.
A player will only be able to join foreign leagues if all ties with the BCCI and Indian cricket are severed. Only retired stars will have this opportunity, and they have taken advantage of it over the years.
In 2020, MS Dhoni, the former captain of India, said goodbye to international cricket. As a result, international leagues do have the luxury of recruiting one of the most innovative cricket minds.
There was a rumor a few months ago that Dhoni would work as a coach for the Joburg Super Kings (JSK) in the SA20 league. The BCCI policy of ending all ties with Indian cricket, including the IPL, led to its eventual rejection.
Dhoni must end his contract with Chennai Super Kings. The team he still leads in the Indian Premier League, in order to participate in SA20 or any other international league.
When questioned by Hindustan Times during a select media engagement on Friday. Smith acknowledged that despite the BCCI rule. He remains optimistic about Dhoni’s association with the league and has opened the door for his arrival.
“To possess a player of his caliber would be incredible. However, as I previously stated, we always collaborate with and honor the BCCI. The fact that we have been able to converse with them and gain knowledge from them.
While developing such a pleasant working relationship with them. They have a lot of experience organizing sporting events like the IPL or the World Cup.
Additionally, having this relationship is crucial for the SAT20. We looked at it from our perspective and saw that we have one or two opportunities.
Additionally, a player like MS would undoubtedly be very valuable to our league. He has been able to perform and maintain performance for a very long time in this field. He would elevate the league to a level that would make us proud.
However, if there were ever an opportunity, I would most certainly contact Mahi,” he stated.
Dhoni is currently getting ready for the IPL in 2023, where he will continue to lead CSK. His final season in the lucrative league remains to be seen.