Commonwealth Games Chairman wants Test Matches rescheduled

The Chairman of the Delhi 2010 Commonwealth Games Organising Committee, Suresh Kalmadi, has written to the Indian Sports Minister, M S Gill, in an attempt to reschedule two cricket Test matches between India and Australia that will clash with the Games.

Although neither of the Tests are to be held in Delhi, the first, in Mohali, takes place a day before the Games start, while the second in Bangalore starts on 10 October.

In the letter, Kalamdi says: “You will be well aware that the XIX 2010 Delhi Commonwealth Games is drawing closer and we have 94 days to go for its start. Our preparations to ensure that we host a successful Games are on the home stretch and we are confident of delivering the best games ever.

“I write to seek your good offices to try and convince the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to reschedule the two Test matches between India and Australia now slated to start on 2 October in Mohali and 10 October in Bangalore, so that the cricket Test matches do not clash with the 2010 Delhi Commonwealth Games.

“I need not stress the importance of not having any international cricket in India during the Commonwealth Games. I had written to Mr Sharad Pawar (International Cricket Council President) as early as 1 July 2009, seeking due consideration from the BCCI to ensure that it does not schedule any major cricket matches during the 2010 Delhi Commonwealth Games.

“I am sure you will use your good offices to convince the BCCI to reschedule the cricket series.”

It is not yet known what M S Gill’s response is.