Chris Broad: Former ICC Match Referee Chris Broad Makes Sensational Allegations Against BCCI, Targets Sourav Ganguly

Former International Cricket Council (ICC) Match Referee Chris Broad has leveled sensational allegations against the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), sending ripples through the cricketing world. In a recent interview, Broad revealed that he was once instructed to be lenient on India's slow over-rate during his tenure. He also targeted former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly, claiming that Ganguly refused to heed his warnings, leading to specific directives from higher-ups. These accusations surface as the Indian team prepares for a T20I series against Australia, raising serious questions about transparency and fairness in cricket administration.

The Sensational Allegation Unveiled

In an interview with The Telegraph, Chris Broad disclosed that he received a phone call during his time as a match referee, instructing him to 'go easy' and 'take some time out because it's India. ' According to Broad, India was three or four overs behind at the end of a match, which would typically warrant a penalty. However, following the call, he had to 'take some time out' and bring the over-rate below the prescribed limit to avoid penalizing India, while broad, however, didn't specify who made the call, nor could he recall the exact match or the opposing team. This revelation casts a shadow over the integrity of decision-making at the highest levels of cricket, suggesting potential undue influence.

Sourav Ganguly's Role Under Scrutiny

Broad further elaborated that this incident wasn't isolated. He stated, 'Next game, exactly the same thing happened. ' Regarding the then-Indian captain, Sourav Ganguly, Broad claimed that he wouldn't listen. When Ganguly failed to comply with the rules, Broad reportedly called again, asking, 'What do you want me to do now? ' and was allegedly told, 'Just do it with them. ' This disclosure raises significant questions about the role of the Indian captain at the time and the challenges faced by match officials in enforcing rules, particularly when dealing with high-profile teams. It underscores the potential difficulties in maintaining impartiality.

India's Alleged Dominance Over ICC

Expanding on his allegations, Chris Broad suggested that while Vince van der Bijl (ICC. Umpire Manager) was in his position, match referees received support due to his cricketing background. However, after his departure, Broad claimed, 'management became quite weak. ' He directly accused, 'India got all the money and have now taken over the ICC in many respects. ' Broad's statement points towards India's growing financial influence within the global cricketing body and its potential misuse, leading to concerns about the sport's overall fairness and governance. These claims suggest a shift in power dynamics within international cricket.

A Distinguished Career Concludes

Chris Broad retired from his position as an ICC Match Referee in February 2024. Throughout his extensive and distinguished career, he officiated in 123 Tests, 361 One Day Internationals (ODIs), and 138 Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is). He expressed relief at no longer being in the role, stating that it had become 'more political than it ever was, while ' Broad's comments reflect the pressures and challenges he experienced during his tenure, indicating a perception that the role evolved into a more politically charged one over time. His allegations are bound to spark significant debate and scrutiny for both the ICC and the BCCI.