Seeing his arch rival Lalit Modi having lunch alone, RCA secretary Subhash Joshi joins him

One has to pinch oneself before believing it that the photograph (right) has not been tampered with. After all, many eyes literally popped out after seeing Rajasthan Cricket Association (RCA) president Lalit Modi and secretary Subhash Joshi, sworn enemies, having lunch at the same table on the RCA Cricket Academy premises, on Thursday.

Moreover, the duo also enjoyed some light moments. No wonder, the ‘bonhomie’ led to eyebrows being raised, especially with the RCA elections round the corner.

Some people even were asking whether a compromise was being hammered out between the two. But, there was nothing of that. All that happened was true sportsman spirit exhibited by the two RCA administrators. 

After presenting his case in an objection filed against his eligibility to contest in the elections before the observer justice NM Kasliwal at the academy, Modi arrived at the academy’s restaurant to have lunch, alone. On the other side, other RCA office-bearers and his one-time close allies were sitting and talking to one another. Modi ordered food and sat down on the table. Joshi, watching his one-time close friend having lunch in isolation, approached Modi.

“Aayiye aayiye Joshiji have lunch,” Modi extended a polite invitation. Joshi pulled up a chair and courteously asked Modi, “How are you?” Another Modi detractor, Ashok Ohri, went near the duo,and remarked, “Modiji, you are having green chilli in such a hot situation.” Modi laughed off the remark and said, “Arre bhai, bring me some kachcha pyaaz,” as he threw the green chilli away. Post-lunch, Joshi told DNA that the rivalry continues and no new equation was cropping up. “In Parliament too, two rival party members talk to each other and also have food together. This doesn’t mean that they have joined hands,” Joshi said. 

Decision today

RCA election observer justice NM Kasliwal heard the objection filed against Lalit Modi’s candidature for the forthcoming polls, on Thursday. Another candidate Sanjay Dixit has challenged the eligibility alleging Modi is “convicted”. Decision will be given on Friday.

Syed Intishab Ali/ DNA-Daily News & Analysis Source: 3D Syndication