Big relief for Sreesanth! Kerala CA revokes three-year ban after apology

NEW DELHI: Former India fast bowler S Sreesanth has received a major boost after the Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) revoked the three-year ban imposed on him, clearing the way for his continued involvement in the Kerala Cricket League (KCL).The decision was taken at the KCA's Special General Body meeting held on July 1, where members unanimously agreed to lift the suspension after considering Sreesanth's unconditional apology for his remarks against the association.The former India pacer had earlier been suspended for three years over comments made through visual and social media platforms, which the KCA said had brought disrepute to the association. Sreesanth had challenged the disciplinary action before the Thiruvananthapuram Munsiff Court, but his petition was dismissed, as per an ANI report.Unconditional apology changes KCA's standFollowing the court proceedings, Sreesanth submitted an official unconditional apology expressing regret for his comments directed at the Kerala Cricket Association.After discussing the apology in detail, the KCA decided to revoke the ban, while making it clear that any similar conduct in the future would invite strict disciplinary action.The decision comes as a significant relief for the 43-year-old, who can now continue as the co-owner of the Aries Kollam Sailors franchise in Season 3 of the Kerala Cricket League. The ban had been imposed ahead of the previous KCL season, casting uncertainty over his role with the franchise.Sreesanth’s cricket careerSreesanth enjoyed a memorable international career for India, representing the country in all three formats. He played 27 Tests, 53 One-Day Internationals and 10 T20 Internationals.In Test cricket, the right-arm pacer claimed 87 wickets at an average of 37.59, including three five-wicket hauls, with best figures of 5/40 in an innings and 8/99 in a match. He also picked up 75 wickets in ODIs, including a career-best 6/55, while taking seven wickets in T20Is.His domestic record was equally impressive, with 213 wickets in 74 first-class matches, 124 wickets in 92 List A games and 54 wickets in 65 T20 matches.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.