The BCCI Apex Council has given its approval for the participation of the Indian men’s and women’s cricket teams in the upcoming Asian Games, to be held in Hangzhou from September to October. While a second-string Indian team will compete in the men’s competition, beginning on September 28, a full-strength side will be selected for the women’s event, commencing on September 19.
Cricket has been included in the Asian Games only three times in its history, with the last edition held in Incheon in 2014, where India did not participate. This year’s competition will coincide with a crucial period for the men’s team as India is set to host the ODI World Cup from October 5 onwards.
Acknowledging the crowded international schedule, the BCCI mentioned that fielding a team at the Asian Games will be a challenge. However, the board emphasized the importance of contributing to the national cause. India is expected to be the favorites to win gold in both the men’s and women’s categories.
“Through effective planning, communication, and coordination, the BCCI aims to navigate these challenges successfully and contribute to the national cause by fielding teams in both the men’s and women’s categories in line with the Government of India’s directions,” stated the board in a note.
In another development, the BCCI Apex Council also approved the implementation of the much-discussed Impact Play Player Rule in the upcoming Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 Trophy (SMAT). The Impact Play Player Rule is a modified version of the Indian Premier League’s (IPL) Power Player concept. It allows teams to replace any player in their starting XI after the completion of the first 10 overs of the match. This rule is aimed at adding excitement and strategic elements to the game.
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With the BCCI’s decision to participate in the Asian Games and the implementation of the Impact Play Player Rule in the SMAT, Indian cricket fans can look forward to an action-packed and competitive season ahead.
