CoA chief Vinod Rai recommends quick inquiry for Hardik Pandya-KL Rahul, Diana Edulji fears 'cover-up'

Amid the controversy surrounding much-criticised remarks made by suspended cricketers Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul, it appears like there is a difference in opinion between the two members of the Committee of Administrators (CoA), Diana Edulji and Vinod Rai. While CoA chief Vinod Rai has sought a quick inquiry into the case, other CoA member Diana Edulji has issued a warning to the former fearing "cover-up" in the inquiry.

Furthermore, Edulji has also expressed objection to BCCI CEO Rahul Johri taking up the preliminary inquiry into the matter.

In the accessed e-mail exchange between Diana Edulji and Vinod Rai, the former has specified that CoA might end up getting criticised if Rahul Johri, who has been alleged in sexual harassment case, conducts the preliminary inquiry. 

Edulji had further stated that a hurry in the inquiry will come across as a "cover-up" job in the case, further insisting that the inquiry should be done by the CoA along with the three BCCI office-bearers.

Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul have been facing massive criticism in the wake of the misogynistic comments made by them on TV Show ‘Koffee with Karan’. They are scheduled to return to soon. 

READ: Hardik Pandya Suspended For His Sexist Comments On TV Show, Read COA’s Letter To The Player Here

On Thursday, COA chief Vinod Rai recommended a two-match ban for Pandya and Rahul but colleague Edulji referred the matter to BCCI's legal team.

Meanwhile, upon realizing his mistake, Hardik Pandya took to Twitter and issued an apology earlier stating he got carried away during the show and hadn't meant to disrespect any individual's sentiments.

"After reflecting on my comments on Koffee With Karan, I would like to apologise to everyone concerned who I may have hurt in any way. Honestly, I got a bit carried away with the nature of the show. In no way did I mean to disrespect or hurt anyone's sentiments. Respect," his statement read.

Defending his son over his comments on 'Koffee With Karan' which landed him in massive trouble, Hardik Pandya's father Himanshu Pandya stated that Pandya is an 'innocent boy' and his views on the tv show should not be taken seriously.

"I don’t think people should read too much into his comments. It was an entertainment show and his comments were made in a light-hearted manner. He was only looking to entertain the audience. So, it [his comments] should not be viewed very seriously or negatively. He is an innocent boy with a very fun- loving nature," he said speaking to a news website.

READ: MASSIVE: KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya Left Out Of First ODI Against Australia Following Sexist Comments On TV Show