Post News Network
Cuttack, April 21: World Cup winning former India cricketer and suspended BJP MP Kirti Azad blasted Orissa Cricket Association (OCA) secretary Asirbad Behera for clinging on to his chair because of individual profit. Talking to reporters here during the final of the PVR Murthy Inter-School cricket tournament, where he was present as chief guest, the controversial cricketer-turned-politician hit out hard at the OCA top boss.
“Cricket has suffered because politicians are mostly at the helm of the affairs in various state associations. Most are occupying the top post because of their individual gains and are least concerned about the development of the game. OCA secretary Asirbad is one of those. These politicians should relinquish their chairs quickly for the development of cricket,” Azad stated candidly. “He (Asirbad) has put gum in his chair. So he cannot leave.”
Azad also argued in favour of Lodha Committee recommendations. “To make cricket corruption free Lodha Committee recommendations should be implemented immediately,” he said. He hailed the new format of the domestic structure of OCA. “School cricket is very important as it is the first platform for budding talents. So, school, college, club and district level cricket tournaments should be encouraged,” he pointed out.
Meanwhile Asirbad, who was also present at the same function as an invited guest, condemned Kirti’s statement. “I have been elected in a democratic manner and I have worked sincerely as OCA secretary and cricket has developed in the state because of my effort. So who is he (Azad) to say what should I do,” he retorted.
“I have not put Fevicol in my chair, so that I cannot get out of it. As Azad is supporting Lodha Committee report, he is speaking against me,” Asirbad added.
