(Source X)
The BCCI and IPL franchises are gearing up to address concerns about foreign players allegedly showing insufficient respect and commitment to the auction process. A crucial meeting is scheduled to convene in Mumbai on Wednesday (July 31).
While the primary focus of the gathering will be on the retention and right-to-match (RTM) rules for the upcoming mega auction, there will also be significant attention paid to the issue of foreign players not demonstrating proper regard for the auction proceedings, as reported by Cricbuzz. Recently, there have been instances where overseas players opted out of participating in the IPL after being acquired by franchises during the auction.
Among those who have withdrawn from the IPL in recent times are Jason Roy and Alex Hales from England, and Wanindu Hasaranga from Sri Lanka. According to sources, these players pulled out citing reasons such as receiving lower bids than expected during the auction, as well as citing injuries or fatigue. These decisions have left franchises disappointed with their commitments and the reasons provided.
IPL franchises seek action against overseas players who are absent without leave.
Franchises are now urging the BCCI to implement measures aimed at preventing similar situations in the future. Previously, during a one-on-one session with the BCCI CEO, franchises had raised concerns about players withdrawing from the IPL without valid reasons. They emphasized the need for action against such players and some have even proposed banning unreliable players altogether.
Franchises have expressed that such player actions disrupt their meticulous season planning, where they strategize and acquire players during the auction to strengthen their squads. The impact was felt keenly during IPL 2024 playoffs when several teams faced setbacks due to players being recalled by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) for international matches. Notable absences included Jos Buttler and Phil Salt.
According to reports, franchises have also pointed out a trend where certain foreign players skip the mega-auction and opt instead for the mini-auction to potentially secure higher bids. They are calling on the BCCI to address this issue promptly.
