Madan Lal, new coach of DDCA

Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) have contended that it has not sacked Bishan Singh Bedi — only not renewed his three-year coaching contract. Talking to newspersons, DDCA vice-president Chetan Chauhan asserted that the Association opted for Madan Lal to be the new coach as it wanted a "new, young, fitter, more agile and punctual" person.

"It is no reflection on Bishan Bedi's capabilities. We simply wanted a new face and Madan Lal was found to be the ideal choice. He has been also coach of Indian team like Bishan and has been a better all-rounder," Chauhan said.

Bedi was on a three-year contract, which expired this season and DDCA named Madan Lal as new coach for a two-year term that can be extended for one more year. That is all and there are no other secret motives behind the episode, Chauhan claimed.

He said even last year there was a strong lobby in the DDCA, which was against Bedi, but still it was decided to give him (Bedi) one year's extension.

Chauhan added that many members were against Bedi's style of functioning and also the former India captain was not very punctual. "In any case appointing the coach is DDCA's prerogative." Asked if he was satisfied with the performance of Bedi as coach, Chetan said, "It was ok, but the members wanted that the post of a coach need not be monopolised."