The BCCI does not allow Indian male cricketers to participate in The Hundred, as well as in other international T20 leagues. In order to play at such an international stage, the player would have to retire from Indian cricket at all levels.
What is The Hundred?
The Hundred is a white-ball cricket tournament created by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). It is a jam-packed tournament, with every team competing over a 100-ball innings. Eight teams, divided based on their cities, compete in this tournament that takes place every summer.
The concept of six-ball overs does not exist in this competition. Each bowler can bowl 5 or 10 consecutive balls, with a maximum of 20 balls for each bowler. It’s the fastest format of the game in the UK, making it a thrilling watch for the viewers. The fifth edition of The Hundred started on Tuesday, 5 August.
Why does the BCCI not allow Indian Cricketers to take part in The Hundred?
The BCCI stopped Indian players from participating in The Hundred and other foreign leagues such as the Big Bash League as they feared it might dilute the exclusivity and brand value of the IPL. They felt that if Indian players took part in other leagues, the leagues would earn more through media rights, while the BCCI gained nothing.
Former Indian National Cricket Team coach Rahul Dravid had a different perspective on the matter. He felt that it would be difficult to allow the Indian cricketers to participate in these foreign leagues, as they generally clashed with India’s domestic season. It may have set a precedent that allows the players to participate in the league over national duty.
Also read:
How does this decision affect the Indian Cricket Team?
This decision has benefited the BCCI and the IPL, as fans can only watch their favourite stars on the Indian stage. The IPL now earns greater sponsorships as well as title rights for being the biggest T20 league in the world. As a result, the Indian players can now enjoy the highest salaries that they may not have received at other international leagues.
It has, however, been a disadvantage for the Indian national cricket team while participating in international tournaments. As a result of this rule, the Indian team lacks experience compared to others at international grounds.
The coach agreed that the Indian team was at a disadvantage in their ICC T20 World Cup 2022 semi-final defeat to England in Australia. He said that “I mean, sure, there’s no doubt about it, the fact that England… a lot of their players have come here and played. In this tournament, it certainly showed. It’s tough.”
Written by: Thillai Ritvik
