The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is preparing to give its junior selection set-up a broader mandate, with the next committee expected to play a key role in educating young cricketers about the risks surrounding drugs, betting and match-fixing. The Indian board invited applications for five positions on the Junior Cricket Committee on Monday, with September 5 being the last date to apply.
In an official media release, the BCCI specifically listed the promotion of strong ethical values among young cricketers as one of its key responsibilities. This includes creating awareness about drugs, betting and match-fixing through interactions with senior and former players.
“Promoting strong ethical values among young cricketers, including awareness around issues such as drugs, betting, and match-fixing, through interactions with senior and former players,” reads one of the key responsibilities for the new junior committee.
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The new panel will take over from the existing five-member committee, which has been in charge since September 2021. S Sharath, who represents the South Zone, currently heads the panel, with Krishan Mohan (North), Ranadeb Bose (East), Pathik Patel (West) and Harvinder Singh Sodhi (Central) completing the group.
The new selectors will be responsible for selecting age-group squads up to the Under-22 level for coaching camps and domestic and international assignments. They will also be expected to contribute to building a strong talent pool that provides India with depth and reliable bench strength in the future. Scouting will form another crucial part of the job.
Members of the committee will monitor players during domestic and international matches, assess their performances and contribute to selections for camps, tours and tournaments, both in India and overseas. The panel will also have a say in appointing the coaching and support staff for junior teams.
Its responsibilities will extend to selecting physiotherapists, trainers, therapists, analysts, medical personnel and other members of the support structure. The committee’s role will not be limited to picking squads. It will also oversee the organisation of BCCI junior tournaments and overseas tours, while handling issues related to the conduct and administration of junior teams.
What is the eligibility criteria?
The BCCI has laid down specific criteria for those seeking a place on the five-member panel. Applicants must be former cricketers who have played at least 25 first-class matches. The applicants must also have retired from the game at least five years before applying.
There is an additional restriction concerning previous service on BCCI committees. Anyone who has served on a BCCI Cricket Committee, as defined under the Board’s Memorandum of Association and Rules and Regulations, for a cumulative period of five years will not be eligible for appointment.
With applications closing on September 5 at 5 PM, the selection process will determine the individuals who will oversee the next phase of India’s junior cricket programme.