S Sreesanth Suspended for 3 Years by KCA: Indian cricket has once again been hit by controversy, this time involving former pacer S Sreesanth. The Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) has suspended him for three years from all cricket activities in the state. The reason? His strong words during a TV debate about Sanju Samson’s exclusion from the Indian team. The decision was taken in a general body meeting on April 30, 2025, and has left many fans and cricket followers in shock.
What Led to the Ban?
Sreesanth, who is a two-time World Cup winner and a well-known face in Kerala cricket, made some sharp comments during a Malayalam TV debate. He openly criticised the KCA and suggested that they were responsible for Sanju Samson not being picked in the Indian Champions Trophy squad. His remarks were seen as derogatory and misleading by the KCA.
In response, the KCA issued a show-cause notice to Sreesanth. But instead of backing down, he reportedly defended his words strongly and blamed the association. His reply, according to KCA officials, was not satisfactory. As a result, the association decided to ban him for three years from all cricket activities in Kerala.
Who Else was Involved?
It wasn’t just Sreesanth who received a notice. Sanju Samson’s father, Samson Viswanath, and some others were also questioned for making similar remarks. While KCA is still reviewing their responses, it appears that their tone was softer than Sreesanth’s. Franchise teams like Kollam Aeries (co-owned by Sreesanth), Alappuzha Team Lead, and Alappuzha Ripples were also issued notices. However, those teams gave acceptable replies and escaped any punishment.
Sreesanth’s Cricketing Role
Even though Sreesanth is currently banned from cricket activities in the state, he can still remain a co-owner of Kollam Aeries, a franchise in the Kerala Cricket League. But his involvement in training, coaching or team management is off-limits for the next three years.
Sreesanth had earlier faced a lifetime ban from BCCI after being accused in the 2013 IPL spot-fixing scandal, but the Supreme Court cleared him, and he was allowed to play again. This new ban, however, is not from BCCI but from the Kerala state association, which controls local cricket affairs.
Sreesanth’s Wife Responds
Speaking to the media, Sreesanth’s wife Bhuvneshwari Kumari said they have not received any official notice yet. She added that Sreesanth was simply supporting a fellow cricketer and would explore legal options once they get the formal order.
“We only heard it from the media. We don’t know the reason clearly. Sree was just backing someone who’s been his teammate,” she said.
KCA’s Stand on the Matter
The KCA made it clear that the action was not taken because Sreesanth supported Sanju Samson, but because he made incorrect and insulting remarks against the association. They said that such public statements, especially without proof, can damage the image of cricket in Kerala.
A KCA official also clarified rumours about Karun Nair being ignored by the association. “Karun has never played for Kerala. He has always been with Karnataka,” the official explained.
Also Read: Big Blow for PBKS as Glenn Maxwell Ruled Out of IPL 2025 with Finger Fracture
Why Fans Are Divided
Many fans are upset over the suspension, saying that Sreesanth was only defending a fellow cricketer. Some feel that the association could have handled the matter more calmly. Others believe Sreesanth, being a senior figure, should have chosen his words more carefully during a public debate.
The entire situation highlights how sensitive things can become when emotions and cricket politics mix. It also reminds us of the importance of professionalism, even during disagreements.
Sreesanth’s three-year ban from cricket activities in Kerala has created a storm in the state’s cricket circles. While some view it as a harsh step, others feel it was necessary to maintain discipline. For now, the ball is in Sreesanth’s court. Will he challenge the decision legally? Only time will tell. One thing is certain — this episode has brought Sanju Samson’s selection row and Kerala cricket politics into the national spotlight.
FAQs
Why has Sreesanth been suspended?
He was suspended for making derogatory and misleading comments about the KCA over Sanju Samson’s non-selection.
Is this ban from BCCI or just Kerala cricket?
It is from the Kerala Cricket Association and applies only to cricketing activities in the state.
Did Sreesanth respond to the KCA notice?
Yes, but KCA found his reply unsatisfactory and defiant.
Can he still own a team in the Kerala Cricket League?
Yes, he can remain a co-owner but cannot take part in cricket activities like coaching or training.
What did his wife say about the ban?
She said they have only heard about the ban through the media and will explore their options after getting the notice.
