Dalmiya concerned over poor performance

Board of Control for Cricket in India president Jagmohan Dalmiya on Monday expressed serious concern over the poor performance of the Indian team and said the matter would be given serious consideration once it returns from South Africa.

"I am very concerned over the team's performance," Dalmiya said, when asked to comment on the Indian team's ninth consecutive loss in a final, in South Africa on Friday.

He, however, said the board does not want to disturb the team now because it is still in the middle of the tour.

"It is a top priority. But during the tour we do not want to disturb, and hence we are waiting for their arrival," Dalmiya said.

Asked whether there was any response to the letters he wrote to coach John Wright and physio Andrew Leipus on the team's performance, he said both had responded but he would not divulge details.

"They have given their observations on the performance of the team. I am getting a feedback from other sources also," Dalmiya said.

Dalmiya said the poor performance of the team was of all the more concern as the 2003 World Cup is just 30 months away.

"I am awaiting the arrival of the team. I will be meeting the captain and senior players, coach, physio and the selectors to find out ways to arrest the slide. I may meet them separately or collectively," he said.

"There have also been too many injuries of late. That is why we have started this whole exercise," he explained.

Asked whether he is satisfied with the selection of the team for the South African tour, Dalmiya said: "The board does not interfere with the selection process. But, of course, the selectors should follow proper guidelines while finalising the team."

On allegations of match-fixing after India's shock defeat to Kenya in the triangular series match, the BCCI chief said no report indicating wrong-doing has come to him.

"Allegations of match-fixing have become very common these days. But there should be some kind of accountability for people who make these irresponsible statements. They cannot be allowed to tarnish the image of innocent people," he said.

Mail Cricket Editor