BCCI Ombudsman summons Pandya, Rahul for deposition

"I have issued notices last week to Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul asking them to appear for deposition" - Justice (Retd) DK Jain © Getty

BCCI Ombudsman Justice (Retd) DK Jain has asked KL Rahul and Hardik Pandya to appear in front of him for a hearing for the pending enquiry after their appearance on a talk-show. Both Rahul and Hardik appeared on the show 'Koffee with Karan' where the allrounder, in particular, made statements that caused outrage on social platforms for being misogynist in nature.

Even though both the players offered an unconditional apology, they were suspended by Committee of Administrators. The players were banned keeping in mind Rule 41 of the BCCI Constitution, which states that the players have to be barred from participating in any match, event, function or activity that is authorised by the board, the ICC or any state association until final adjudication of the issue. The suspension, however, was lifted as the CoA decided to wait for the appointment of an ombudsman.

"I have issued notices last week to Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul asking them to appear for deposition," Jain told PTI. "As per principles of natural justice, I need to hear their side. It's up to them now to decide when they want to appear."

Both players are key figures for their franchises in the Indian Premier League and no set date has been assigned for the deposition. Both players were asked to return from Australia while KL Rahul also missed the series in New Zealand. Once the suspension was lifted, Pandya was asked to join the Indian side in New Zealand while Rahul was added to the India A squad for the one-day games against England Lions.