Don't go to SA for commercial shoot: BCCI

The Board of Control for Cricket in India has advised six Indian Test cricketers not to go to South Africa for a commercial shoot and instead take adequate rest and remain focussed on the coming triangular one-day series in England later this month.

BCCI president Jagmohan Dalmiya said the board cannot stop any player from going anywhere, "but it is advisable that they utilise the short break before the coming England tour for adequate rest and to remain focused on that series".

According to a report, six Indian cricketers, including vice-captain Rahul Dravid, Anil Kumble, Javagal Srinath, Dinesh Mongia, Harbhajan Singh and Ajay Ratra, after their arrival from the long and arduous tour of the West Indies sought permission from the BCCI to fly out to South Africa for a commercial shoot.

Dalmiya's suggestion not to travel came after discussion with other BCCI officials.

Commenting on the issue, a board official said quite often players complain about lack of rest and time to spend with their families between the tours. "How they could now go for a commercial shoot just arriving after a long tour, while another tour is just round the corner?" he wondered.

Meanwhile, it is learnt that the six cricketers paid heed to Dalmiya's request and decided against going for the shoot.

The Indian team is scheduled to leave for England on June 18, for the triangular one-day series involving England, India and Sri Lanka.

Mail Cricket Editor