IPL 2019: No bar on sitting in DC dugout for Sourav Ganguly

Three Kolkata based fans in a letter to BCCI Ombudsman DK Jain alleged that the former India skipper's dual role is a case of Conflict of Interest

The BCCI has given clearance to Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) President Sourav Ganguly for his coalition with Delhi Capitals in the ongoing season of the Indian Premier League (IPL). He won't be barred from sitting at the team dugout but he is likely to depose in person before the BCCI ombudsman in the matter, a top BCCI official said Wednesday. Three Kolkata based fans—Bhaswati Santua, Ranjit Seal and Abhijeet Mukherjee—in a letter to BCCI Ombudsman-cum-Ethics-Officer DK Jain, alleged that the former India skipper's dual role is a case of Conflict of Interest. But Ganguly, in his written reply to the Ombudsman's notice, has categorically denied the charge. According to media reports, Justice Jain may just hear out the former India captain in person before taking a final decision on the matter. “There is absolutely no bar on Sourav sitting in the DC dug-out. In any case, the matter is still pending with the Ombudsman and no law can prevent him from being present in the dug-out,” the BCCI official was quoted as saying. “But yes, if he wants to sit somewhere else, it will be his call. And Justice Jain has already made it clear that one particular match is not his concern. So that makes it clear,” the official added. But now that he has given his reply to Ombudsman, why would there be a need for in-person deposition? “It's following the principles of natural justice. Even Hardik Pandya, KL Rahul deposed in person after their written submissions. I am not saying Ombudsman will call Sourav but he has that option before the matter is brought to a closure,” the official said.