The BCCI’s vice-president, Rajeev Shukla,has spoken out after four Australia A cricketers — including their captain — fell sick during the ongoing one-day series against India A in Kanpur.
The players suffered stomach infections, and Henry Thornton was even taken to Regency Hospital before his condition was stabilised. The incident has raised questions about food quality and accommodation in the city.
However, Shukla dismissed concernsabout unhygienic meals, saying the affected players might have some other issues rather than food poisoning.
“If there had been an issue with the food, all players, including the Indian players, would have fallen sick. It must have been something else,” Shukla told reporters in Kanpur, highlighting that both the squads are eating from the same kitchen at Hotel Landmark, which is one of the city’s top establishments.
He revealed that the situation is monitored closely and that those who need it are provided medical care. Three of the four Australian players were treated and discharged after a few routine checks.
Shukla also highlighted the majorchallenges of hosting large squads in Kanpur. “The issue arises because there aren’t many hotels. We need 300 rooms in a five-star hotel, and that’s not available. There is no international airport in the area that operates 24/7,” he explained.
When asked why similar problems are not faced during the IPL, Shukla replied that the league’s franchises handle their own travel and lodging and the BCCI has nothing to do with it. The series is tied 1-1. The third match is being played today.
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