New Delhi: Harsha Bhogle's ouster from the Indian Premier League commentary box came as a surprise to most cricket lovers.
While there is no clarity over why the BCCI took such a stand, a complaint from senior players with regards to Bhogle's views on air appears to have triggered it.
Many believe the Indian board operates in an autocratic manner and is thin-skinned when it comes to facing criticism.
According to a report on NDTV, this is not the first time the BCCI has taken a commentator off air.
Similar instances like this have occurred in the recent past.
Arun Lal: In 2012, he was dropped from the commentary team for allegedly working with the Bangladesh Premier League as a commentator.
Sanjay Manjrekar: In 2013, he was ousted from India-Australia series' commentary panel for allegedly criticising BCCI president N. Srinivasan and IPL boss Sundar Raman on a webcast. This despite Manjrekar having a contract with the host broadcaster.
Danny Morrison and HD Ackerman: In 2013, the duo was removed from IPL commentary after labeling Virat Kohli as India's captain-in-waiting. This was at a time when MS Dhoni was facing the heat with regards to his captaincy, especially in Test cricket.
Ian Chappell: In 2013, the Aussie refused to commentate on the India-Australia series as his contract did not permit him to discuss team selection, DRS or administrative matters.
