Asia Cup: Why is Star India unhappy with the BCCI?
What's the story
Virat Kohli has been rested for the Asia Cup 2018, which is being held in UAE. This decision, by the Indian board, has irked broadcaster Star India as it feels it will impact viewership, with Kohli being a fan-favorite. However, the BCCI has maintained its stance and said nobody else, except the national selectors, can have a say in this matter. Here's more.
Star India
Star India writes to the Asian Cricket Council
Star India wrote to the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), starting Kohli's absence from the continental tournament, will negatively influence the television viewership. Star also mentioned that the Media Rights Agreement has not been honored, in this case, since the terms state that the best team has to be selected for a tournament. The letter specifies that all stakeholders will be impacted by Kohli's absence.
BCCI
How did the BCCI respond to the letter?
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), in response to Star's letter, has written to the ACC that no one but only the selectors have a say in choosing the national squad. "Please note that selection of the best available team for participation in a tournament is the sole prerogative of BCCI", the letter stated in clear terms.
Kohli
Our opinion: BCCI is right, Kohli needs rest
It is true that Virat Kohli is indeed the biggest star of world cricket. However, the national team's performance and the fitness of players are far more important than a broadcaster earning money. Kohli had a long England tour of 84 days and needs rest, and a national team's captain cannot be used for a company's benefit.
Information
India's upcoming matches in the Asia Cup
India will face Hong Kong tomorrow in their first Asia Cup 2018 encounter at 5:00 PM. On September 19, they will meet arch-rivals Pakistan. The matches will be telecast on all Star Sports channels and can also be live-streamed on Hotstar.