Date:30/09/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/09/30/stories/2006093004982000.htm

Sport - Cricket

BCCI confident

Special Correspondent

MUMBAI: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has learnt some lessons on the logistics aspect of organising a big event, Tournament Director Prof. Ratnakar Shetty revealed during a press meet at the Cricket Club of India (CCI) here on Friday, ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy.

Prof. Shetty, who will soon assume charge as administrative head of BCCI, offered a detailed account of the efforts made by the four member units — Punjab, CCI, Gujarat and Rajasthan — to stage the tournament.

"Things are falling into place for the event. We have learned many positive things. In India, we get most of the things done orally. The ICC makes it a point to put even the smallest detail on paper," revealed Prof. Shetty.

"We're all set to play host to the event. I can say without a doubt that all the venues — Mohali, Motera, Sawai Mansingh Stadium and Brabourne Stadium — are in top condition," said BCCI Secretary Niranjan Shah.

Random drug tests

"The ICC has insured each player for $300,000 and the premium will be paid by it. The World Anti-Doping Agency will conduct random tests on two players from each team during the course of the tournament and thirdly, a record number of 21 matches will be played," Prof. Shetty said.

"Players seeking therapeutic exemptions must inform the ICC beforehand and the Indian team has been educated on all aspects, including the ICC rules on branding," he added.

India will play one practice match in Jaipur, while Australia, South Africa and New Zealand will play two. The trio will play a match each against Mumbai. In addition, Australia will play a match against Maharashtra, South Africa against Saurashtra and New Zealand against Baroda. Three matches each will be played at the Wankhede Stadium and MIG Club.