Kochi Tuskers in tax-evasion row

Trouble for Kochi Tuskers Kerala never seems to end -- a fresh row has broken out now between the franchise and Cochin Corporation over alleged tax evasion on ticket sales.

Ahead of Wednesday night's match, when the tickets were brought to the corporation for sealing, a new batch of tickets priced at Rs.49 was seen.

"In the previous two matches, the ticket for the hospitality box was priced at Rs.15,000 and today the same ticket has been priced at Rs.49. What does this show and who does not know that this is being done to avoid the tax that will be levied," corporation mayor and Congress leader Tony Chammany told media.

The hospitality box is reserved for VIPs and team owners.

But the franchise begged to differ and alleged persecution. "This sort of attitude does not augur well for the smooth conduct of the matches and we will have to think of what needs to be done if this sort of attitude continues," said team owner Vivek Venugopal.

Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) secretary T.C. Mathew, who has been burning the midnight oil to see that the stadium is match fit, is also a disillusioned man.

"We are all deeply disappointed because only those who have worked hard to see this team become a reality know about our hard work and the efforts that we have put in. We are all shocked by the attitude of the corporation officials and if this is the attitude then none should be surprised if the team owners pull out from here," said Matthew.

The owners are now contemplating to approach leader of opposition Oommen Chandy to intervene and sort out the issue.

The franchise has gone through several problems right from the start and received another set-back Wednesday after the Indian cricket board turned down their request to reduce their franchise fees.