Kolkata: With just a few days left before the start of the third season of the Bengal Pro T20 League, the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) has found itself at the centre of multiple controversies. From a franchise pulling out on the eve of the player auction to a major legal dispute involving the league’s former organiser, pressure is mounting on Bengal’s cricket administration.
বাংলায় পড়তে ক্লিক করুন: লিগের কাউন্টডাউনে অস্বস্তি, সিএবির বিরুদ্ধে ৭০ কোটির ক্ষতিপূরণ দাবি
₹70-Crore Legal Notice Sent to CAB
According to sources, Arriva Sports Private Limited, which organised the first two editions of the Bengal Pro T20 League, has served a legal notice demanding ₹70 crore in compensation from CAB.
The company alleges that CAB unilaterally terminated an agreement signed between the two parties in 2023. Arriva claims that despite the league generating nearly ₹14.8 crore in financial gains for CAB over the last two seasons, the association ended the partnership without proper justification.
Claims of Financial Losses
Arriva Sports has further alleged that it incurred losses of nearly ₹2.5 crore while bearing several additional and non-contractual expenses during the organisation of the tournament.
According to the company, it remained interested in continuing as the league organiser for the current season. However, CAB reportedly decided to appoint a new agency instead, a move Arriva has described as unfair and unlawful.
The dispute has now entered the legal arena, adding uncertainty ahead of the tournament.
CAB Unfazed by Legal Action
Despite the legal notice, CAB officials appear reluctant to express concern publicly.
Sources within the cricket administration claim that multiple vendors have raised complaints against Arriva Sports over unpaid dues. According to CAB insiders, those issues created operational difficulties and negatively affected the association’s reputation.
As a result, sections of the administration believe appointing a new organising partner was the correct decision.
Administrative Changes on the Horizon
Alongside the legal battle, significant administrative developments are also taking place within CAB.
Reports suggest that Joint Secretary Madan Ghosh may soon be removed from his position. Ghosh reportedly turned 70 last month, crossing the age limit prescribed under the recommendations of the Lodha Committee.
According to those guidelines, office-bearers who exceed the specified age limit are required to step down from their posts.
Questions Over Governance
Critics have questioned why Ghosh continued to function as Joint Secretary despite crossing the age threshold. The issue sparked debate within cricket circles over administrative transparency and compliance with Lodha Committee reforms.
Although reports suggest CAB has initiated the process to remove him, he was reportedly seen performing his duties from his office at CAB headquarters on Wednesday.
Focus Shifts Beyond the Field
As the Bengal Pro T20 League countdown enters its final phase, off-field developments have overshadowed preparations for the tournament.
The legal dispute, internal administrative challenges and governance-related questions have created an uneasy atmosphere around the competition. Cricket followers will now be watching closely to see whether the tournament can proceed smoothly despite the controversies surrounding Bengal cricket’s governing body.
