New ICC chief hints at separate international calendar for IPL
11 Jul 2008, 1850 Hrs

Add comment          Mail          Print          Write to Editor

London, July 11 (ANI): Considering the huge amount of money cricketers earned in the first session of Indian Premier League (IPL) in March-April, against what they get from international cricket, new ICC chief executive Haroon Lorgat has raised concerns over the future of international cricket, and hinted at the need for a separate window for the IPL in the international calendar.

He reportedly told this to reporters at Lord's last evening.

Lorgat's comments assume significance in the wake of Sri Lanka Cricket allowing its players to participate in the IPL next year though it coincided with a tour of England.

SLC had agreed to the series (against England) earlier this week as a replacement for Zimbabwe, but gave in after their players lobbied hard - involving the country's president - for the right to play in the IPL.

"If we don't manage this situation we could be threatening the lifeblood of all member countries. International cricket generates revenue that is essential to our survival. My folks always told me to be careful because money is the root of all evil. The root of this issue is the sums of money involved - it is far more attractive financially to play in the IPL," cricinfo quoted Lorgat as saying.

He added: "There is no doubt that there are inherent conflicts in the situation. Each country would rather look after its own interests and then you also have to get together to look after the global interests. I would hope that the ICC has people with the integrity to look after the game globally." (ANI)