Former India cricketer Laxman Sivaramakrishnan has stepped away from BCCI commentary after 23 years, citing lack of opportunities and alleged bias, claiming he was overlooked for key roles. He clarified neither the BCCI nor Jay Shah influenced his decision, stating his grievance is with an individual, not the board’s leadership, sparking debate about transparency in Indian cricket broadcasting.

Former India cricketer Laxman Sivaramakrishnan has found himself at the centre of a fresh controversy after stepping away from commentary duties with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), sparking widespread debate within the cricketing fraternity.

The issue initially gained traction when Sivaramakrishnan announced his exit, citing long-standing concerns over lack of opportunities and alleged bias during his 23-year association as a commentator. He claimed he was repeatedly overlooked for key on-air roles such as toss coverage and post-match presentations, despite his experience and tenure.

However, as speculation grew, particularly on social media, the former leg-spinner clarified that neither the BCCI nor Jay Shah played any role in his decision. Addressing the controversy, Sivaramakrishnan stated that his grievance was with a specific individual within the system rather than the board’s top leadership.

Sivaramakrishnan's remark sparks debate