Conflict of interest is absolute nonsense, it should be thrown into the bin: Ravi Shastri

The ‘Conflict of Interest’ has been an infamous term in Indian cricket. Several prominent personalities like Sourav Ganguly and VVS Laxman have come under the scanner due this issue. For the unversed, the conflict of interest occurs when an individual’s personal interests have a possible impact on his or her actions at the workplace. Speaking on this matter, former Team India head coach Ravi Shastri said cricket personalities get undone by this matter.

Shastri lashed out at people dragging BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) to courts on the name of Conflict of Interest. He also stated that he is not able to commentate or mentor in IPL due to the same. Shastri also cited the example of former Australian captain Ricky Ponting, who works as a commentator and is even the head coach of IPL team Delhi Capitals.

“It is over the top this conflict of interest. I was not really for it. A masseur with the Indian team cannot work with an IPL team. Conflict of interest is absolute nonsense. It should be thrown into the bin. For me to not be allowed to do commentary if I am India coach, how is that conflict of interest?” Shastri said to Indian Express’ Express E Adda.

I just want to coach on a grassroots level now: Ravi Shastri

He also highlighted the fact that this issues is restricting personalities like Sachin Tendulkar from having a stake in Indian cricket. “Ever since it came out in Lodha report, I was against it. You aren’t giving your cricketers a chance. It’s absolutely nonsense, this conflict of interest clause, should be thrown into the bin,” he added.

Shastri, who had been India’s head coach since 2017, also revealed he wanted to leave the job due to the strict COVID-19 protocols. On being about his future plans, he said: “I have just got out of the bubble. I have not discussed anything with anybody. I want to later come back to what I love. TV and media. I just want to coach on a grassroots level now.”

“Politicians have done an excellent job in administering cricket in India. BCCI is one of the most efficient boards over the last 40 years,” he added.