Venkatesh Prasad steps down as Chairman of Junior Selection Committee
The Chairman of junior national selection committee, Venkatesh Prasad has stepped down from his post with immediate effect. The 48-year-old played a huge role in putting together the Under-19 team that won the World Cup this year. Prasad cited personal reasons for his resignation. He added potential conflict of interest could arise soon as he was close to returning to coaching.
"I spoke to Prasad and asked him to reconsider his decision. But he is firm and wants to move on. A thorough gentleman, Prasad's contribution as a selector is immense and we at BCCI are proud of his achievements." acting BCCI President CK Khanna said.
Prasad is keen to don the coach's hat again and is close to signing a contract with an IPL franchise. BCCI's conflict of interest clause is the primary reason for his resignation. Prasad is likely to join as a bowling coach. However, his last stint as a coach was 4 years ago when he guided bowlers of Uttar Pradesh's senior cricket team in 2014.
BCCI's conflict of interest clause states "Cricketers appointed as coaches of Indian teams or national selectors shall not be associated with any private coaching academies during their tenure." The clause applies to national, state or franchise-based leagues.
Recognition could also be one of the reasons why Prasad decided to step down as the chairman of the junior selection committee. While he was instrumental in putting together Under-19 team that won the world cup, he wasn't rewarded for it. BCCI awarded a cash prize of Rs. 25 lakh each to the coaching and the support staff but the selection committee was ignored.
Prasad is an experienced coach. He mentored the 2006 Under-19 World Cup team and led them to the final. He has also worked as the bowling coach of the national senior team. Moreover, he was a part of the coaching staff for RCB and CSK.
