Lalit Modi plays down talk of powers being clipped

DHARAMSALA - Indian Premier League (IPL) chief Lalit Modi Saturday played down speculation of his powers being curtailed following the Kochi franchise controversy, terming it a creation of “certain vested interests”.

“All speculations in this regard are wrong. It’s just a creation of certain vested interests,” Modi told reporters.

He also said no meeting of the IPL governing council has been held to discuss the issue.

“There was no formal or informal meeting. We were here to witness the Deccan Chargers and Kings XI Punjab match. Moreover, we were meeting each another just casually and at the individual level,” Modi said.

“I am feeling much relaxed after listening to the Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama,” he said.

The players of Kings XI Punjab and Deccan Chargers had an audience with the Dalai Lama at his official palace here Saturday morning. Modi too accompanied the players.

Modi said here Friday that there was “no difference of opinion” among the members of the Board of Control for Cricket in India on its relations with the IPL.

“There is no difference of opinion among the BCCI members. The IPL matches would continue and we would provide each and every information that is required by the government,” he said.

The income tax department Thursday began a probe into the source of funds of various franchisees of the IPL. IT department officials visited the IPL offices in Mumbai late in the night and also questioned Modi on the IPL funding. It was described as routine enquiry.

The Kochi franchise is embroiled in a major controversy over its ownership issue and the role played by Minister of State for External Affairs.