'Why has BCCI forgotten its veteran cricketers?'

Former India cricketers on Monday hailed the Board of Control for Cricket in India's decision to appoint retired greats Sachin Tendulkar, VVS Laxman and Sourav Ganguly in its cricket advisory committee, terming it a "step in the right direction".

Tendulkar, Ganguly, Laxman inducted in BCCI's advisory panel

However, there were some who asked why its veteran cricketers are forgotten.

1983 World Cup-winning wicketkeeper Syed Kirmani said, "I am really glad that they have been inducted into the advisory committee. It's a move in the right direction."

At the same time he asked why has the BCCI overlooked cricketers of his era who are eager to still contribute something to the game.

"No doubt, the BCCI is the best sporting body in the world and they're looking after their former cricketers like no other association; there are no two ways about it.

"But why are the veteran cricketers of my era, like Mohinder Amarnath, who have taught and inspired these recently-retired cricketers, forgotten? That's my only question," said Kirmani, seemingly unhappy that cricketers from the 70s and 80s were not considered.

Citing the example of Anil Kumble, he said, "Kumble made his debut when I was the captain. I was the KSCA director for six years, but it hurts that I've not been given any role at the NCA, which is next door."

Kirmani, however, was hopeful that the BCCI will open the doors for some former cricketers of his era in future.

"I am still hopeful and ready to serve the game, may be as a mentor to the age-group cricketers," he said.

Legendary spinner Erapalli Prasanna urged the panel to work towards unearthing talented spin bowlers.

"The idea is good. They have a huge responsibility at hand. I am a keen follower of Indian cricket and what I find is a tremendous shortage of effective spin bowlers in the country. Our team can't do well if the bowling attack doesn't have good spinners. I expect the 'Big Three' look into this aspect," Prasanna said.

The master off-spinner also wants age-group cricketers to interact with the trio on a regular basis. Laxman is already associated with the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB)'s 'Vision 2020' Project, where he guides talented youngsters from the eastern state from time to time.

"Another thing I would want them to do is share their experiences with cricketers at all levels, starting from grassroot. They have to take Indian cricket forward," said Prasanna.

Kiran More, another former India wicketkeeper, also hailed the move saying, "It's an excellent idea as they have played together and have enough experience. Things are going in the right direction for Indian cricket."

Former Left-arm spinner Venkatapathy Raju, who played for India alongside all three, feels these former players can boost the morale of youngsters.

"Yes, I think it's a step in the right direction. The experience of these guys is invaluable. They have been there in the thick of things and it's wonderful to have their experience; it will certainly help the cause of Indian cricket," he said.

According to Raju, the induction of the 'Big Three' will make the role of players more important in coming days.