According to latest reports, BCCI has responded to the appeal made by players like Suresh Raina and Irfan Pathan, who have urged the governing body of Indian cricket to let them play in the overseas cricket leagues. Raina, who has not been offered a new contract by BCCI, said in a recent Instagram live session that players like him should be allowed to participate in the foreign domestic T20 leagues.
He said, “I wish BCCI plans something with ICC or the franchises that Indian players get to play foreign leagues. At least allow us to play in two different foreign leagues.” He added, “If we play quality cricket in terms of foreign leagues, then it would be good for us. All international players make a comeback by playing in all those leagues.”
He was seconded by his former colleague Irfan Pathan.
The left-handed all-rounder, who has announced his retirement from all forms of cricket earlier this year, said, “There is a different mindset in different countries. Michael Hussey made his debut at the age of 29 for Australia, an Indian player can never make his debut at the age of 30. I think as long as you are fit, you should be available to play for your country.”
He added, “I would suggest that all those players who are 30 years old and they are not on your radar to play international matches, you should allow them to play in foreign leagues.”
In response to this appeal from the southpaws, the BCCI official said that the exclusivity of the Indian cricketers will be maintained by the Board, not only in case of the contracted players but also the players like Raina and Pathan, who are out of contract, so that they can get good value when they take part in IPL.
He said, “One usually finds these views emanating from those who can see the wall of retirement approaching and it’s only natural. That’s their view. It’s the luxury of having the freedom of a tunnel vision with a view to further their own interests and that’s absolutely fine." He added on, “From the point of view of the board and the interests of Indian cricket, the intent is to ensure a system where the non-contracted players are able to command good value at the IPL auction. Exclusivity is the key,”
Featured image credits: SportsCafe
