MRCC's callous attitude deprive players of opportunity to impress selectors

NAGPUR: One of the seasoned teams of the city-Medical Representative Cricket Club (MRCC)-faced the brunt of their own casual approach on Saturday. Despite several reminders from the Vidarbha Cricket Association (VCA) over the last two years, MRCC failed to register its players.
On the opening day of Guzder League 'A' Division (2-day) Tournament, VCA directed MRCC to play only with 7 registered players, who were present on the ground.The MRCC squad comprising senior Ranji Trophy players Apoorv Wankhade and Shrikant Wagh decided to give walkover to Ministerial Services Sports Club (MSCC) after the toss.
The decision deprived both MRCC and MSSC players a much-needed opportunity to present their cases and get into Ranji Trophy squad. Wankhade and Wagh of MRCC and MSSC's Rushabh Rathod and Sachin Shende are in the reckoning.
"Our senior officials told Wagh and Wankhade on call that only registered players will be allowed. As per my knowledge, Wankhade himself was unregistered. It was their personal decision to give walkover. If they felt they would lose the game with 7 players, it was the same by giving walkover. This is also against the spirit of the game. They should have played without worrying about the loss," said a VCA official.
"Being not registered shows how serious the players are and how much importance they give to the tournament. MRCC could have used the match to their benefit. Many players wait for this tournament and when they get the chance, they are letting it go," the official added.
When MRCC reached the Jamtha Stadium, they were told by umpires that only registered players can play. The umpire's directions shocked the MRCC team management as they realized only 7 players are registered. TOI has learnt that Wankhade and Wagh made a few calls to VCA officials, who refused to budge.
When the off-the-field drama was going on, MSSC players were ready for batsmen to come. However, after a long span, MRCC senior players decided to give walkover. Earlier, in Guzder T20 Tournament, MRCC were in similar situation but VCA allowed them with an ultimatum. Yet, they did not rectify their mistake and paid the heavy price.
Sources said, MRCC manager Abhijit Piprode and senior players were at VCA on Saturday evening. "They are asking for re-match but possibilities of that happening is almost nil," added the official.