Founder of IPL, Lalit Modi ends his innings with cricket administration

File Picture : TOI

Lalit Modi, founder of the Indian Premier League (IPL), took to social media on Saturday to announce his resignation from the Nagaur District Cricket Association in Rajasthan.

Modi posted a three-page letter on his Twitter account, addressed to Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) CEO Rahul Johri informing of his decision to leave the post.

“It has been a long journey for me in Indian cricket. The path has been rocky at times, but the destination has always been the pursuit of excellence. Needless to state that over the past 15 years, I have enjoyed every moment of my journey.

“But I feel that the time is now ripe to pass on the baton to the next generation. Thus, today I want to bid goodbye to cricket administration for now,” Modi wrote in his letter.

Modi has left the country in 2010 after allegations about tax evasions and money laundering. BCCI had since then suspended him on basis of 22 charges. He has been living in London since then and fighting the charges from there. BCCI expelled him from the board in 2013 after he was found guilty.

Due to the involvement of Modi,  RCA was banned by the Indian cricket board. The Rajasthan Royals are set to make a comeback in the Indian Premier League after serving a two-year ban. Earlier, they were not allowed to play any of their home matches in the state in last three years.

The RCA also did not get money from the BCCI, which amounts to Rs 100 crores.

“I have done my part for the betterment of Rajasthan cricket, and now it is your turn to honor your part of the promise! I repose my faith in you and the BCCI to do the right thing!,” wrote Modi in his letter.

Lalit Modi added, “I would, therefore, request you to release the funds due to RCA as soon as possible. I believe it was blocked precisely because of my presence.

“With my exit from all forms of cricket, at all levels, for ever, I think RCA deserves to reclaim their share and presence on the Indian cricket map. I hope the BCCI under your stewardship lives up to that promise.”