In what could be termed be a massive blow for the promising 14-year-old all-rounder Musheer Khan, the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) has banned him for three years on disciplinary grounds. The verdict was laid down on January 17 (Thursday).
Owing to the stern action, the honorary joint secretary for MCA, Unmesh Khanvilkar reiterated that they had to take action regarding the inappropriate behaviour from the youngster.
However, Khanvilkar added they do have empathy for the teenager, but he should have set focused on his leadership role.
“We took this decision considering the seriousness of the situation. We’ve sympathy for the boy, but we’ve to draw a line somewhere when it comes to discipline. Being the captain, he should’ve set an example,” Khanvilkar told Times of India.
Pertinently, Musheer who’s the brother of Sarfaraz Khan has led Mumbai-based Under-16 team. The middle-order batsman Sarfaraz has represented Indian Premier League’s franchise Royal Challengers Bangalore led by Virat Kohli.
Eventually, it makes clear that Musheer, who also bowls left-arm spin will not feature in any of the tourneys under the ambit of MCA.
Moreover, in 2013, during MCA’s award ceremony, Musheer received an award from the legendary Sachin Tendulkar alongside Team India’s new recruit, Prithvi Shaw, in the national fold.
Since there on, Musheer has improved his game, leaps and bounds.
Musheer’s father to appeal:
Naushad Khan, who has trained his son, said they are set to appeal following the sanction.
“We’ll appeal against this decision,” Naushad said.
Memon termed it as a personal grudge:
Nadeem Memon, who is serving as the secretary of the Mumbai School Sports Association (MSSA) has also lambasted the MCA.
Memon believes it is all about the animosity and nothing else. Also, Musheer could have been given leeway by issuing a final warning according to Memon.
“This boy is an outstanding talent. This is a case of a personal grudge. He could’ve been let off with a last warning. How can they ban him without giving him a show-cause notice?” Memon complained.
Earlier, Memon has also served as a member of the managing committee.