IPL's Hundred investment won't impact Pakistani players, says ECB chief
What's the story
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), has assured that Pakistani players' participation in The Hundred remains unaffected despite four IPL teams acquiring stakes in the tournament.
Richard Gould, CEO of the ECB, confirmed this during a discussion about the upcoming fifth edition of The Hundred while talking to ESPNcricinfo.
He stated, "We're aware of that in other regions, about Pakistan players' limited exposure in IPL-owned teams in other tournaments; but that won't be happening here," he added.
Here's more.
Acquisition details
IPL franchises acquire stakes in The Hundred
The Mumbai Indians, Lucknow Super Giants, Delhi Capitals, and Sunrisers Hyderabad have successfully acquired stakes in four teams of The Hundred.
They are the Oval Invincibles, London Spirit, Southern Brave, and Northern Superchargers respectively.
This development marks a significant expansion of the IPL's global influence as it now holds stakes not only in The Hundred but also in other international tournaments like the CPL and SA20.
Player participation
ECB acknowledges BCCI's stance on Indian players
Gould also acknowledged the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) firm stance of not allowing its contracted players to participate in overseas leagues.
"In terms of availability of Indian players, that is not factored into our plans. The BCCI's position has been very clear. At some point, we'd love to see Indian players come and play in England," he said.
However, Gould remains hopeful for the future of Indian cricketers' involvement in the tournament.
Tournament schedule
The Hundred's 5th season to commence in August
The fifth season of The Hundred will start on August 5, while the final will be played on August 31.
This start date comes just days after India's five-match Test tour of England concludes.
The ECB secured private investment for all teams in The Hundred through exclusivity agreements with eight partners, valuing the tournament at over £975 million.
Market expansion
IPL investment could open up Indian market for The Hundred
The ECB is hopeful that the high-profile investment from IPL could possibly tap into the lucrative Indian market.
However, they don't expect this new alliance to alter BCCI's policy of not allowing India's active male players to participate in foreign T20 leagues.
Despite ongoing political tensions between India and Pakistan, Gould assured opportunities for Pakistani cricketers in The Hundred won't be limited due to IPL's influence on the tournament.
Investment
ECB to spend £470m on County clubs post-IPL teams' investment
The ECB has raised a whopping £975 million by selling stakes in 'The Hundred' teams.
This was done through partnerships with four leading Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises and other investors.
Meanwhile, the money will provide a huge financial relief to English county cricket clubs which have been facing financial difficulties.
The ECB intends to reinvest a large chunk of the £975 million, £520 million to be precise, into the county, grassroots, and recreational cricket.