DDCA Dismisses U-19 Selection Head Ashu Dani Amidst IHPL T20 Scandal

The Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) announced on Tuesday that they have dismissed former opener Ashu Dani from his position as the chairman of the U-19 selection committee. Dani was removed due to his alleged involvement in the Indian Heaven Premier League (IHPL), a privately organized T20 tournament in Kashmir, which poses a conflict of interest.

Although Dani claimed that his role as the league president was merely “symbolic,” the failure to compensate former international players such as Chris Gayle, Jesse Ryder, and local player Parvez Rasool has damaged his reputation.

Videos have emerged showing Dani speaking at a press conference alongside Surinder Khanna, another prominent figure from Delhi, who was also reportedly involved in the league.

The IHPL was terminated after just three games, and the organizers, under Dani’s leadership, failed to settle the bill for the luxury accommodations provided to the players.

“We have already removed Ashu Dani from the position of U-19 selection committee chairman. After his removal, he submitted his resignation. Concerning former India batter Surinder Khanna, he will also step down as the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) chairman since the panel will be dissolved,” stated DDCA secretary Ashok Sharma to PTI.

Furthermore, it’s reported that DDCA has denied permission to a physio and a current selector who intended to participate in an unrecognized T20 league scheduled in Florida, USA.

“We have informed all that they may engage with private leagues professionally only after resigning from their existing roles with DDCA. A selector and physio expressed interest in joining a US league, and we advised them to resign first,” added Sharma.

A DDCA official remarked, “The DDCA should have cautioned these individuals earlier. The decision to deny their participation coincides with the day their tickets for Florida were purchased.” The DDCA issued a notice instructing that no one may associate with the league.

The notification from interim CEO RR Singh emphasized that all stakeholders, including players, coaches, support staff, and match officials, must avoid participating in any unauthorized or unrecognized leagues during their engagement with DDCA.

Stakeholders are required to disclose any potential conflicts of interest and ensure that no such conflicts exist. The notice warned that any unauthorized association or conduct that appears as a conflict of interest will result in appropriate action by the DDCA.