A Major Blow to IPL Teams with English Players
Teams with English players in the IPL are set to receive a major setback, with Rajasthan Royals likely to be the most affected. The England Cricket Board (ECB) has issued a notice stating that all English players participating in the IPL will miss the playoffs of the tournament due to an upcoming T20I series between England and Pakistan.
This clearly indicates England’s priorities. While they may have come to play in the IPL, when it comes to representing their country, playing for their nation, and preparing for a major tournament, their message is clear: their players will play for the country first.
The IPL tournament will have to be forgone as it is a much bigger game. The playoffs are knockout games, and this could be a big blow for Rajasthan Royals and Kolkata Knight Riders.
For Royals, Jos Buttler is an indispensable player and his presence in the team is crucial. Similarly, for Kolkata, Phil Salt is also a very important player. Both players open the batting for their respective teams. This is disappointing news for the fans of these teams, but it also shows the priorities of the respective cricket boards.
Punjab Kings’ Chances of Reaching Playoffs Diminished
Punjab Kings’ chances of reaching the playoffs are already slim, but they will have to lose three of their key players – captain Sam Curran, Jonny Bairstow, and Liam Livingstone – midway through the IPL if they do manage to reach the playoffs.
These three players will not be available for them. For Chennai Super Kings, who are likely to play in the playoffs, Moeen Ali will be absent for the playoff matches.
Royal Challengers Bangalore to Miss Will Jacks and Reece Topley
Royal Challengers Bangalore will not have the services of Will Jacks and Reece Topley if they reach the playoffs, which is highly unlikely as it seems unlikely that Bangalore will reach the playoffs. This further highlights the clear priorities of the England Cricket Board.
It was also in their contract list that if their national team plays any series, their players will have to choose to leave the franchise tournament and play for the country. If they do not do so, their national contract can be terminated and they can be out of the team forever.
It is good news that in this era of league cricket where every player runs behind entertainment and money, there are some boards that keep their players in check.
