Dalmiya takes aim at sponsors

Jagmohan Dalmiya expressed the hope that the contracts controversy, which led to India's World Cup payment being held back, won't have to be taken to a court for arbitration. The Global Cricket Corporation (GCC), which marketed the event, have asked for compensation from the ICC, which in turn has withheld India's share of the tournament proceeds.

Addressing the media at the Wankhede Stadium, Dalmiya said, "The claims made by the GCC are massive, and such things take time. Regarding the matter finally landing up in the arbitrator's court, who knows? Anything can happen in today's world but I hope things don't get that bad."

One of the official sponsors involved in the ambush-marketing wars was Pepsi - who currently sponsor India's domestic cricket - and Dalmiya had some veiled words of criticism for their role in the affair. When asked about a future course of action - Pepsi's deal comes to an end soon - he said, "We will be cautious in dealing with those companies who didn't support us during the contract crisis. Pepsi has to decide where it stands. You can't say something to us and then go ahead and do something altogether different."

He was also sceptical about the need for a bowling coach. "Having multiple coaches in the team has become a fashion these days," he said. "In New Zealand and in South Africa during the World Cup, our seamers did an excellent job. However, if the players and coach John Wright feel the need to have a bowling coach, we will certainly give serious consideration to the proposal."

He also announced that the BCCI would be giving thought to the recommendations made at the recent coaches seminar.