Athavale's Republican Party of India (A) is an ally of the BJP in state as well as Centre governments.
Addressing reporters here, the MoS for Social Justice said, "I am not saying that undeserving player should be included, but if there is an eligible player, then such dalit background player should be given priority."
He said though reservation was his old demand but it should benefit deserving players or sportspersons so that dalit community will benefit out of it.