New Delhi, November 5:The Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) has terminated former Delhi opener Ashu Dani from his post as chairman of the Under-19 selection committee over his alleged involvement in the controversial Indian Heaven Premier League (IHPL) — an unrecognised T20 tournament held in Kashmir.
The DDCA acted after reports surfaced that Dani held the title of league president for IHPL, which has been mired in controversy following non-payment of dues to several international players including Chris Gayle, Jesse Ryder, and Parvez Rasool. The tournament was abruptly called off after just three matches, leaving behind unpaid hotel bills and player fees.
Although Dani claimed that his role in the league was merely “symbolic,” DDCA deemed the association a conflict of interest, leading to his immediate dismissal.
“We have already sacked Ashu Dani from the U-19 chairman of selectors’ post. After the termination, he sent his resignation letter,” said DDCA secretary Ashok Sharma to PTI.
In a related move, former India batter Surinder Khanna will also not continue as Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) chairman, as the panel is set to be dissolved.
DDCA Tightens Rules Against Private League Participation
The DDCA has also refused permission to a current selector and a team physio who sought to participate in another unapproved T20 league in Florida, USA.
“We have told everyone that if they want to associate professionally with private leagues, they must first resign from their current DDCA roles,” Sharma added.
An internal DDCA circular issued by interim CEO RR Singh further warned all players, coaches, and officials against taking part in unauthorised or unrecognised tournaments, whether in India or abroad.
“Any such association will be treated as a violation, and appropriate disciplinary action will follow,” the notice stated.
Background on IHPL Controversy
The Indian Heaven Premier League (IHPL) was a privately organised T20 tournament in Kashmir that promised high-profile participation but collapsed within days. Reports revealed players were left unpaid, and the organisers failed to clear bills with luxury hotels. The fiasco has sparked calls for stricter oversight of unrecognised cricket leagues operating outside BCCI’s jurisdiction.