MSK Prasad defends neutral venues in Ranji Trophy amidst criticisms

MSK Prasad, Chairman of selectors and former Indian wicket-keeper on Wednesday supported the decision of neutral venues in domestic cricket after the move was heavily criticised by senior players in the domestic circuit.

The latest Ranji Trophy season saw the introduction of neutral venues, which was criticised in the latter stages of the tournament by veteran and captain of Tamil Nadu Abhinav Mukund and domestic veteran Rajat Bhatia. Prasad’s view on this topic was contrary as he is an ardent supporter of the decision by the BCCI.

“I am all for it as it challenges the players to the limit. Anyone can play and win at home, but with the neutral venues, including the ones in remote areas of the country, you have to get out of your comfort zone and perform,” Prasad told PTI on the sidelines of the Vijay Hazare Trophy quarterfinal between Jharkhand and Vidarbha here.

Kaushik Gandhi, a Tamil Nadu player, earlier supported the decision saying that it helps him on a personal level to bat on different surfaces away from home. The implementation of this, however, received flak regarding the scheduling issues and apathy on the part of the host associations.

However, most of the critics have ripped the decision stating that the supporters of the State team would not turn up regularly if the home matches are switched to neutral venues, and it would have its dire consequences on the revenue of each State.

Most of the matches were played in front of an empty stadium, which highlighted the statements made by the critics. However, Prasad had a different perspective to it. He claimed that an average Indian fan would travel any distance to watch his/her favourite player in action pointing out to the Syed Mushtaq Ali tournament conducted in Mumbai.

He concluded saying that the implementation of this plan has scope for improvement in the future and it would help in the growth of the domestic players.