24 February,2010 05:56 PM IST | | Alisha Coelho
Indian Premier League chairperson Lalit Modi today on the social networking site Twitter turned the heat on critics of the security systems in India saying that objection or not, "DLF IPL will be played in India."
Also directing barbs at Australian skipper Ricky Ponting, Modi tweeted on Wednesday afternoon, "Been told Ricky Ponting pressuring players not to come. Maybe it's due to the fact he was dropped from KKR." Ponting was last year part of the Shah Rukh Khan owned team, Kolkata Knight Riders.u00a0
Accusing player associations of using 'arm twist' tactics, Modi also tweeted, "The government has already given ample assurances for safe conduct of games. We are working with all agencies in this direction."
| Modi Tweets | |
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"We have 98 players on the waiting list eager to get called in for replacement. So they have hope now if some drop out." | |
He added, "I have been sent messages through various quarters to entertain Federation of International Cricketers' Associations (FICA) President Tim May. Unfortunately we do not recognise FICA or any agents." May had earlier this month alleged that Twenty20 cricket was "ripe for corruption" and had also said that the FICA, of which he is president, had received a number of calls from international players who were concerned about their security.u00a0
Modi also argued that the currently touring South African team was safe. "South African players - touring india as we speak - security is fine for them now as provided by the Government. All happy now."
The DLF IPL is set to start on March 12 with the opening ceremony in Mumbai.
