BCCI ignores Borde for camp

Meanwhile, BCCI’s chief administrative officer, Prof Ratnakar Shetty, said from Mumbai: “No, he (Borde) will not be at the camp. It will be overseen by bowling coach Venkatesh Prasad and fielding coach Robin Singh.”

Borde also resented suggestions that his job could be jeopardised due to a generation gap with the players.

“I do not know who is behind this whispering campaign. But it seems that some vested interests are at work,” a normally soft spoken 72-year-old veteran cricketer said.

“Col C K Nayudu and Col Hemu Adhikari were the shining examples of the fact that age is no bar on fitness. I am still actively associated with the game and involved in MCA coaching for under-19 players. This talk of generation gap between manager and players is totally irrelevant.”

Not ready to predict the outcome of the forthcoming tours of Ireland and England, newly-appointed Team India manager, Chandu Borde, opted to play it safe. “It is a long and important tour and we have to be focused,” is his way of looking at things.

As far as India’s preparedness is concerned, Borde said: “The team is full of talent, and coupled with youth, they are capable enough to win matches.” Borde is familiar with the playing conditions, having toured England in 1967.

Borde said: “Players have to get acclimatised to the English conditions first. So it is not wise to predict any results before touching down in Ireland.”

Borde said that Robin Singh and Prasad would be a great help.

Meanwhile, Borde wanted some time before joining the team. “Everything has happened in a flash. I am in no hurry to join the team as I have some personal work to complete before leaving the Indian shores.”