The Indian Premier League (IPL) is definitely the most promising T20 league with a lot of fans in the world. However, millions of fans eagerly wait for its start every year. Also, in recent news, it has been reported that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is restricting Sri Lankan and Bangladesh players from competing in the IPL. This article will delve into the reasons behind this restriction and explore the implications of the same.
Partial Involvement of Sri Lankan and Bangladesh Players in IPL
The BCCI is reportedly unhappy with the partial involvement of Sri Lankan and Bangladesh players in the IPL. As per the schedule set by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), only three players – Shakib Al Hasan, Litton Das, and Mushfiqur Rahim. However, those will be playing in the IPL from April 9 to May 5. But, then they will be away for 10 days. And, start again after May 15.
Similarly, four Sri Lankan players – Wanindu Hasaranga, Matheesha Pathirana, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, and Maheesh Theekshana. They will be missing the first week of the tournament as they will be with the national team for the New Zealand tour.
This partial involvement of players has reportedly irked the BCCI. Moreover, it feels that franchises would be skeptical about picking players from certain countries. But, only if they are not available for the entire duration of the tournament. The BCCI official did give a statement as follows.
“Franchises would be skeptical about picking players from certain countries if they are here to play the tournament partly.”
Franchise Officials Back Bangladesh Players
While the BCCI may be unhappy with the partial involvement of Sri Lankan and Bangladesh players, franchise officials seem to back the latter. One franchise official was quoted as saying, “It is what it is. We can’t complain because it’s the BCCI that negotiates with other boards. But of course, franchises will be sceptical about picking players from certain countries. If you see, Taskin (Ahmed) did not get the NOC, and now this. If they don’t want their players to play, they should not register. But, for sure, the perception about Bangladeshi players will change in the future.”
Implications of Restricting Sri Lankan and Bangladesh Players from IPL
The restriction of Sri Lankan and Bangladesh players from IPL could have significant implications for the league. First and foremost, it could affect the quality of cricket on display. Also, some of the best players from these countries may not be available for the entire duration of the tournament. This could, in turn, impact the competitiveness of franchises and the overall excitement of fans. As their fans might not like it.
Moreover, it could also impact the perception of the IPL among fans and players from these countries. The IPL is widely regarded as one of the most lucrative T20 leagues in the world. And, many players from Sri Lanka and Bangladesh aspire to participate in it. If they are unable to do so due to restrictions imposed by the BCCI. However, it could lead to disillusionment among these players. And, they may choose to participate in other leagues instead.
Furthermore, it could also impact the relationship between the BCCI and the cricket boards of Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. If these boards feel that their players are being unfairly restricted from participating in the IPL. Also, it could lead to strained relations between them and the BCCI. This, in turn, could impact future bilateral tours and other cricketing engagements between the countries.
List of the players from Bangladesh as well as Sri Lanka who will be joining late in IPL 2023:
Bangladesh
➣ Litton Das (Kolkata Knight Riders)
➢ Shakib Al Hasan (Kolkata Knight Riders)
➢ Mustafizur Rahman (Delhi Capitals)
Sri Lanka
➢ Wanindu Hasaranga (Royal Challengers Bangalore)
➣ Maheesh Theekshana (Chennai Super Kings)
➢ Matheesha Pathirana (Chennai Super Kings)
Conclusion
The restriction of Sri Lankan and Bangladesh players from the IPL has raised concerns among fans and franchise officials alike. Also, the BCCI may have its reasons for remarking this restriction. However, it could have significant implications for the league, the players. And, the cricketing landscape as a whole.
Also, it remains to be seen whether the BCCI will revisit this decision in the future. Or, if Sri Lankan and Bangladesh players will continue to face restrictions in the IPL. Nevertheless, as the 16th edition of the IPL kicks off. The excitement of the fans as well as players will be at peak.
Moreover, fans will eagerly wait to see which players make it to the field. And, how their absence or presence impacts the tournament’s outcome. Even the sports experts would love to watch that too.
Rest, we will find out soon.
