• Source:JND

India will send a full-strength cricket team to the upcoming Asian Games, BCCI vice-president Rajiv Shukla has confirmed, putting to rest speculation that the country could field a second-string side at the tournament.

Shukla also said the concerns around the playing facilities in Japan have now been addressed. According to him, the ground and wickets are in good shape, while issues related to the dressing rooms and toilets have also been sorted out.

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Playing facilities no longer a concern

Speaking about the preparations for the Asian Games, Shukla said the BCCI had raised concerns about the basic facilities at the venue. The board wanted the playing surface, wickets and team facilities to be up to the required standard.

 

“Our main focus was on getting a good ground and quality wickets. We also wanted proper dressing rooms and clean, accessible toilets. Earlier, the toilets were located quite far from the playing area, so we raised the issue with the Japan Cricket Association and also discussed it with people involved with the Asian Games,” Rajiv Shukla exclusively told The Daily Jagran.

Shukla said the concerns were eventually addressed and the facilities are now ready for the Indian team.

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“The ground and wickets are good now, and the dressing room issue has also been taken care of. As things stand, the playing conditions are fine and there are no major concerns.”

No ‘B team’ for Asian Games

There had been talk that India could send a second-string squad to the Asian Games. However, Shukla made it clear that the team selected for the tournament will be a strong one.

India’s squad has already been announced and includes experienced players. Shukla pointed to Jasprit Bumrah’s presence as an indication of the strength of the side. He added that India will take the tournament seriously and compete with its strongest available squad.

“This is not a second-string team. Our regular players will be there, and we are taking the Asian Games very seriously. We are going there with full strength, and I am confident that we can win.”

Shukla backs India in Women’s Asia Cup

Shukla was also asked about India’s ongoing campaign in the Women’s Asia Cup. With India set to face the next challenge in the tournament, he remained confident about the team’s chances and backed the side to go all the way.

“Let the match on the 13th come first. Once we get there, we will know how to cross that bridge. But I am confident that India will win.”


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