Sharad Pawar also said one young player in the India set-up had filed an unofficial complaint that one player was being paid more by a company endorsing him for the length of time he spent at the crease.
He explained: “It is true that when I got an opportunity to interact with some young players, they did mention that there are certain advertisement companies which are giving contracts to a group of players.
“The companies’ intentions are always to see that each and every member of their advertisement team is selected. That is their thinking. I don't know how far it is correct.
“I have asked some trusted people to look at this. There will not be an official investigation but we are looking into this.
“It is an unofficial complaint and if found to be correct, the system needs to be strengthened. So I have asked the players to submit their copies of the old contract.
“If, say, nine players sign a contract with X, Y or Z company, those brands want the players to be always in the team.
“There is a feeling like this amongst the younger players. We will speak to the players.”
The comments fuel speculation during the recent ICC Cricket World Cup that selection was in someway influenced by the desire to satisfy the players’ corporate backers.
