Hyderabad: After soaking in two days of intense speculation over his possible elevation in the BCCI, former Hyderabad cricketer and BCCI vice-president was a happy man on Friday after the Supreme Court passed an order asking him to take charge of the non-IPL affairs in the BCCI.
“Whatever responsibility the Supreme Court has given me, I will try to fulfil to the best of their expectations,” an elated Shivlal told this newspaper soon after the apex court passed the order.
The 57-year-old knows that is not an easy task but “my first priority will be to do my best to improve the game and enhance the conditions for cricketers.”
“It will be too early for me to speak on the day-to-day affairs of the matter but after I have the first meeting, we will know exactly what needs to be done,” Shivlal said when asked about his plans to improve the game and cricketers in the country.
Shivlal admitted he never thought he would be on top of India’s cricket administration, especially during his playing career spanning 1979-87. “No, no, no,” he burst out. “I never expected that one day I would head the national cricket body. It is a great feeling to be given this honour to serve the game.”
Being a seasoned administrator, Shivlal is well aware of the challenges that come with being in the BCCI hot seat but says he is prepared for it. “I have been a BCCI vice-president for six years and enjoy a good rapport with all the members. I am sure there will not be any problems when it comes to administration... it should be smooth,” he assured.
In the same breath, he said: “However, I am not looking too far ahead and would like to take it step by step. If something is available to me I’ll take it, I will not go after it.”
Friday’s court order also allows him time to settle down before taking over. The IPL, for which Gavaskar will be in charge, comes as a breather. “In a way, yes, but even otherwise, I was prepared to accept responsibility,” Shivlal said.
