Sreesanth sets sight on return to first class cricket after Kerala High Court lifts life ban, BCCI maintains close guarded approach

Speedster S Sreesanth breathed a great sigh of relief when his life ban on cricket was lifted by the Kerela High Court on Monday. The Kerala paceman is contemplating a return to first class cricket and is looking to get back to playing for his state side Kerala.

“He was acquitted in the case. Then how can the BCCI impose a ban on him? It is denial of natural justice,” the High Court observed while revoking Sreesanth’s ban.

Talking to media, Sreesanth (34) said his first priority was to get into the Kerala team. He said he was physically fit and hit the ground soon. “Many people supported me in thick and thin. They stood with me. I am really indebted to them and I will not let them down,” he said in Kochi.

Meanwhile, the BCCI kept a close guarded approach post the court giving its order on the case. Asked about the BCCI’s stand, acting president C K Khanna said: “The judgement has come today. The BCCI’s legal team will study the judgement and give its observations. Obviously, their feedback will be taken and placed at an appropriate forum (general body).”

In May 2013, Delhi police had arrested Sreesanth and two of his Rajasthan Royals teammates, Ajit Chadilia and Ankit Chavan, on charges of spot fixing. Later, the BCCI had imposed a life ban on him. “It is a really good news for me. I will back in the field soon,” he said after the verdict.