Prashant's selection to Delhi U-19 team causes furore

In a case so typical of the Delhi and District Cricket Association, the state U-19 team is witnessing a drama just three days before it embarks on a trip to Haryana to play one-dayers.

The selection of Prashant Bhandari has left the house divided. Bhandari, who used to play for Malviya Club till last season, and is now with ONGC on a stipend, was selected as the vice-captain of the team.

However, the sports committee opposed his selection and the debate between the U-19 selectors and the committee has ensured that the team, already picked, cannot be announced officially.

A member of the DDCA had earlier brought the issue of his date of birth in the court. Strangely, according to the tests conducted by BCCI a few years back, his age is within the range and he is eligible.

“The issue of his age is with the court. The matter is sub-judice,” said Ashok Sharma alias Mama, a key member who helped the current committee come into power. “Till that time we can’t select him.”

But the question is, why was he selected in the first place? Delhi Cricket has learnt that there is a tug-of-war between U-19 chairman Nikhil Chopra and the sports committee. The selectors led by Chopra, the former India offie, had drafted in Prashant’s name.

Prashant’s coach Jai Prakash feels that because he is close to the previous committee, headed by Vindo Tihara, such a treatment is being dealt to his ward.

Nevertheless, Delhi Cricket feels that it is the kid and the entire team’s morale that is suffering. Either they should have resolved the issue before picking the team and ignored him or they should go with him since they’ve picked him.