The “Times London” reported that owners of top IPL franchises are attempting to persuade up to six of England’s top players. To forego playing for their country in international cricket in exchange for lucrative annual contracts worth up to 5 million pounds.
Nearly every one of the ten IPL franchises has expanded into other leagues. Such as the CPL in the West Indies, the SA T20 in South Africa, the Global T20 League in the United Arab Emirates and the upcoming Major League T20 in the United States.
A few IPL franchises may invest in the ambitious Saudi T20 league. According to a report in “The Times,” after IPL franchise owners approached at least six English players. Including some international stars And inquired as to whether they would.
In theory, accept a deal whereby an Indian team rather than the ECB or an English county, would serve as their primary employer. This development follows discussions among players’ unions worldwide about the potential effects of 12-month franchise contracts.
Which would be a significant step toward the football model of elite players being primarily contracted to their team and released for international duty?
“According to one source, contract offers could surface as early as the end of the year, according to The Times”.
There is no question that T20 cricket is here to stay and T10 is quickly catching the public’s attention as well.
While the ICC has frequently considered limiting the number of leagues. An active contracted player can play annually. It is possible that many young players will give up international cricket or forgo central contracts to become free agents.
According to the paper, a conversation along these lines also included prominent Australian T20 experts.
“Discussions about full-time contracts have already been held. With a number of prominent Australian players but this has now been expanded to include English players. Contracts could have annual values of more than GBP 2 million and even GBP 5 million. Which is more than five times the value of the highest England central contracts”.