Ravindra Jadeja had sought clarification from the BCCI whether "he was free to sign with any other team in the IPL".

About a fortnight ago Rajasthan Royals allrounder Jadeja was suspended from taking part in Indian Premier League III for allegedly bargaining for a pay hike from other franchisees.

In a letter to the Indian Cricket board (BCCI), Jadeja had said that his contract with the Royals got over on December 31, 2009 and that meant he was free to sign with any IPL team as the Royals had not offered him a fresh contract, 'Times of India' reported on Sunday.

"It is my understanding that my contract with Rajasthan Royals has expired and they have not at any stage offered me a renewal for Season 2010. In addition, I have never refused until this day to sign such a contract.

Hence, I believe I am free to sign a contract with any franchisee," Jadeja said in the letter.

Jadeja further stated: "If there is any delay on my part, I regret the same in view of my pre-occupation with playing cricket at domestic and international levels. In view of this, I seek your approval and guidance as to whether I am free to sign with any other franchisee. I seek your guidance in the matter and await your decision."

Jadeja also wrote: "As per 2009 player regulations, Rajasthan Royals had an option until 7th January, 2009 to sign me for two years commencing from January 1, 2009. Despite this option (clause 35 & 36 of Player Regulations 2009) Royals signed me for one year only from 1st January 2009 to 31st December 2009. I became an India Player in January 2009 and was therefore paid Rs 40 lakhs. However, in my contract, my category continued as a 2008 World Cup under-19 player and my contract continued at Rs 20 lakh. Even as per IPL Player Regulations 2010 (clause 14) I continue to be in the category of 2008 World Cup under-19 player."

However, a BCCI official told 'Times of India' that despite Jadeja's request to the BCCI, his suspension would stay.

"As of now, he doesn't have a contract and the last date for submitting the IPL squads was Feb 12. It's unlikely that anything can be done," a BCCI official told the newspaper.