WCA launches review to streamline global cricket calendar
In a major development, the World Cricketers Association (WCA) has initiated an "independent review" to address the haywire global cricket schedule. The aim is to develop a more sustainable and organized structure for the sport. This move comes in response to growing concerns regarding players' workload. The review will concentrate on three key areas - global scheduling, the economics of cricket, as well as the employment, contracting, and regulation of players.
WCA criticizes current cricket model
The WCA has termed the current model "broken and unsustainable." The association highlighted the lack of clarity between international cricket and domestic tournaments. This pushes players to choose between representing their nation and focusing on their careers. The aforementioned review will be led by a panel including former Pakistan Women captain Sana Mir, ex-ECB CEO Tom Harrison, former Australian Cricketers's Association head Paul Marsh, ex-FICA head Tony Irish, and Disney Star head of sports Sanjog Gupta.
WCA chair expresses disappointment with cricket's leadership
WCA Chair Heath Mills remains disgruntled with cricket's leadership for not establishing a clear global structure that accommodates the sport's three formats. "We have virtually given up hope of it doing so," he said. Mills emphasized that this review aims to provide recommendations on optimizing the global structure of cricket. The ICC has not yet commented on this initiative by the WCA.
Domestic T20 leagues strain cricket calendar
The influx of T20 leagues is diminishing the significance of international cricket. There is little window for conducting bilateral international cricket, the viewership of which has declined massively of late. Several renowned stars are opting for franchise cricket due to logistical and other reasons, at the expense of leaving their central contracts. New Zealand's Devon Conway, Kane Williamson, and Trent Boult are some of the entrants on this growing list. The trent was started by the West Indies players.
WCA proposes solutions for cricket schedule
The WCA, which represents members from 16 boards, has proposed solutions to address these issues. One such solution is keeping separate windows so that international cricket and domestic T20 leagues can be held subsequently. This proposal is supported by 84% of the players consulted by the association. The aim is to finalize these recommendations by year-end, offering a potential resolution to the ongoing challenges faced by cricketers worldwide due to an unsustainable global schedule.
