Pity that Chennai lost out on World Cup matches: Richardson

Speaking to DT Next, the South African said it is a pity to see the city lose out on quality cricket action. “Chennai is a great city with good cricket tradition. It is unfortunate that we have problems with some stands at Chepauk. We, at ICC, thrive for maximum attendance and that guideline has cost Chennai its due. I am sure Chennai will be in contention very soon,” the South African said. 

On the sidelines of an MRF event, Richardson spoke on a variety of topics. 

It’s very important to create a good balance between the bat and ball. We shouldn’t worry about countries preparing wickets to their strengths but it should not be overdone. If a team has a skilful batsman, then they have a chance to create an impact. An even-paced pitch promoting technique and stroke play is a mandate. We have an ICC pitch consultant who liaises with curators to make sure pitches are prepared according to the guidelines for the upcoming World T20. 

Several educational programmes that the ICC has conducted in this regard have been successful in keeping the problem of match-fixing in check. It would be silly if a player gets involved in this now. ICC has an anti-corruption unit in full vigil at all ICC tournaments. 

DRS is very useful for us. Our statistics show that 93 per cent of umpiring decisions are right and with the help of DRS, it goes to 98 per cent. India, unfortunately, have opposed it due to various reasons. Getting India to use DRS would be an asset for us. 

The ICC has met the IOC and we will report the outcome of the meeting next month. Introducing cricket in the Olympics will develop the sport in non-cricketing countries. 

Glad to see Chennai back to vibrant mode: Sachin 

Be it on the field or off it, legendary batsman Sachin Tendulkar’s fondness for Chennai and its people is well known. The former Indian captain, who was in the city to promote the ICC World T20 starting in India on March 8, said, “I last visited Chennai during the floods. 

However, when I got down at the airport today, I noticed that the city has not lost its vibrancy. It is mainly because of the people here who have shown some character and dynamism in bringing the city back to normalcy.” Sachin spoke about how the city has been contributing to cricket. 

“T A Shekar was not only a talented pacer but also made an immense contribution by identifying budding talent for the national side.” Sachin said that India are the favourites to clinch the cup this year. “Now that I am not the ambassador for the World T20, I can amenably say, ‘India go all the way’,” concluded Sachin.