Inzamam-ul-Haq calls for IPL boycott amid Champions Trophy row
What's the story
Former Pakistan captain Inzamam-ul-Haq has called for a global Indian Premier League (IPL) boycott after India refused to play in Pakistan due to security concerns.
This led to a hybrid model, allowing India to play all 2025 Champions Trophy matches in Dubai, intensifying the debate.
His statement also highlights BCCI's policy, which bars Indian players from overseas leagues unless they retire from Indian cricket, including IPL and domestic tournaments.
Here's more.
Discontent
Inzamam-ul-Haq criticizes BCCI's stance
As mentioned, ul-Haq has voiced his displeasure with the BCCI over the ongoing Champions Trophy controversy.
The debate began when England cricket experts Nasser Hussain and Mike Atherton suggested that India's performance was unfairly boosted by playing all their matches at a single venue in Dubai.
Due to political tensions and security concerns, the ICC scheduled all of India's matches in Dubai, preventing them from traveling to Pakistan.
Boycott
Inzamam shares his views on IPL
"Top players participate in IPL but Indian players don't participate in other leagues," he said in an appearance on a Pakistani TV channel.
"Other boards should stop sending their players to IPL. If you (BCCI) don't release your players for leagues, then other boards should take a stance," he stressed.
This call for a boycott comes amid debate over India's participation format and venue for Champions Trophy matches.
Policy
BCCI's policy restricts Indian players' participation
As mentioned, the BCCI's policy bars Indian players from competing in foreign leagues unless they retire from all forms of Indian cricket, including the IPL and domestic tournaments.
Once retired, players cannot return to BCCI-hosted events—a rule that has drawn criticism from several cricketing legends, including ul-Haq.
Semi-final
Champions Trophy semi-final preparations amid venue controversy
The venue controversy took a new turn as Australia and South Africa traveled to Dubai to prepare for a possible semifinal against India.
India's ongoing final group match against New Zealand will determine the semifinal lineup. A win sets up a clash with Australia, while a loss means facing South Africa instead.
This has prompted both teams to reach Dubai to prepare for their potential clash with India.