Alex Hales, England’s powerful opener, has decided to participate in the 8th season of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) instead of joining the England team for their tour of Bangladesh in March, according to English media reports. The Telegraph states that Hales will fulfill a contract worth £145,000 with Islamabad United for the upcoming edition of Pakistan’s premier league.
The England cricket team is scheduled to play three T20I and three ODI matches in Bangladesh between March 1 and 14, conflicting with the PSL, which will run from February 13 to March 19. The report highlights that for Hales to leave a portion of the PSL and play for England in Bangladesh would result in a significant loss of money, as England match fees, which range from £5,000 to £2,500 for T20Is and ODIs, are significantly lower than franchise payments.
Hales made his return to the national team in September of last year and played a key role in England’s T20 World Cup victory. He remains a crucial part of the national team’s plans, and England is reportedly understanding of the situation, with no pressure placed on Hales to choose one over the other. The national team has become increasingly aware that franchise leagues now pay more and has allowed several cricketers to play in franchise leagues instead of playing for the Lions, the national second-string, this winter.
Hales confirmed his availability for the PSL 8 in a statement released by Islamabad United. He expressed his love for the team and the free-flowing style of cricket they play. The PSL 8 will begin in Multan on February 13, with the defending champions, Lahore Qalandars, facing off against the Multan Sultans in the opener.
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Alex Hales Biography | Alex Hales Profile | Alex Hales Net Worth
