Recent reports have created a stir in the cricketing world as it has been confirmed that Indian Premier League franchises are keen on English players quitting international cricket and focusing more on franchise-based cricket. The franchises are even willing to offer multi-year deals that come with a lucrative paycheck to those cricketers who are ready to sign the contract. While nothing has been made official yet, this development has divided opinions among cricket enthusiasts.
While some believe that franchise cricket is the future of the game, others argue that it will not replace international cricket altogether. In an interview with BBC Test Match Special podcast, former England international Ravi Bopara shared his opinion on this matter. He stated that this development was expected as IPL franchises have been expanding their reach, buying franchises in South Africa, the USA, and the West Indies among a few other places.
“This was coming. This has been a chat in the county circuit and around cricket in general. This was always going to be happening, especially after IPL teams started acquiring teams worldwide – in the South African league and in the major league coming up in America. We have already seen them acquire teams in CPL, to recruit West Indian players coming through. That was the start,” Bopara said on BBC Test Match Special podcast.
As per Bopara, this development is something that players need to seriously consider as it involves big money. Players like Jos Buttler and Sam Curran are sure to be part of the discussion among IPL team owners, as they have been performing consistently well in the cash-rich league. Bopara also suggested that cricketers might end up signing a franchise contract if they are towards the end of their playing days.
If a player’s England career is coming to an end, then signing a multi-year deal with an IPL franchise may seem like a better career move. Additionally, if a player is just starting their England career, then this development can pose a serious dilemma for them. There is no guarantee that they will play for England for 5-10 years, and signing a 4-5 year contract with an IPL franchise provides guaranteed financial stability.
“I am not surprised at all by the development. I am sure Jos Butler, Sam Curran would be part of that discussion. Those two would definitely be part of the discussion, It’s a real thing for players to think about as it’s big money. If they are seeing longer contracts say 3 year or 5 years, then it’s a serious issue for players to think about. If one of them is coming to an end of England career, then you are sort of thinking you have only 2-3 years left in England career, you might think this is better career for me.
“If you are someone just starting your England career, then this is a serious dilemma. As there is no guarantee that you are going to play for England for 5-10 years. If you are playing well, they might pick you but with this, you have a contract – a 4-year 5-year contract is guaranteed. That’s going to be difficult thing,” he added.
This development is worth paying attention to, as it may have a significant impact on the world of cricket. The prospect of lucrative multi-year deals is a tempting proposition for any cricketer, and it is only a matter of time before we see how this development plays out in the world of cricket. As cricket enthusiasts, we must keep a close eye on this development and see how it evolves over time.
