There’s no conflict on Rahul Dravid’s case, reiterates CoA

Rahul Dravid’s post as Director of the National Cricket Academy has been under speculation on account of his commitments with India Cements. The retired cricketer serves as the company’s vice-president and hence has been under scrutiny for having a conflict of interest since he holds a national post under the BCCI.

Only last week, Ethics officer DK Jain had sent him a notice regarding the allegation, that had originally been mentioned in a complaint filed by Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association life-member Sanjeev Gupta. The Committee of Administrators however, differs on the matter, claiming that Dravid is free of any such conflict.

"There’s no conflict on Rahul’s case. He has got a notice and we have cleared his appointment. We had seen no conflict, if Ombudsman (sees any conflict), we will have our response going to the Ombudsman why there is no conflict. He has to consider (it). It’s a process…and the process will continue," CoA member, Ravi Thodge, was quoted saying on Thursday after a meeting with Dravid, reported Sportstar.

The meeting had taken place to discuss the future of the academy and the steps that need to be taken for its development, Dravid’s position makes him the primary man responsible for shaping the future of Indian cricket. 

"In NCA, there are a few things that need to be done. There are shortage of grounds, they require certain positions, certain people to be employed and certain coaches. There has to be continuity," Thodge said.

Dravid has already served stints as coaches of the Indian U-19 cricket team and India ‘A’ in the past. He is one of the most respected Indian cricketers in the country and has various records to his name.

"Once you select someone of Dravid’s stature, he has to ensure that the NCA comes up to that international standard. He has given his vision and we are fully in support of his vision. We will work together," Thodge concluded.