Cricket

Former Pakistan cricket captain Mohammad Hafeez has strongly criticized Jos Buttler's suggestion that the ICC calendar should be adjusted to avoid international matches clashing with the Indian Premier League (IPL).Hafeez expressed shock and disappointment over Buttler's statement, emphasizing that the honor of representing one's country should not be compromised for a tournament like the IPL. "It shocked me. The statement was given by Jos Buttler after coming out of the IPL season and representing his own country as a captain. He said that there should not be any international cricket clashing with IPL," Hafeez said on the Club Praire Fire podcast.Hafeez questioned the priority of the IPL over international cricket, stating that the pride of playing for one's nation should take precedence. He sought the opinion of former England captain Michael Vaughan on the matter, but was surprised by Vaughan's response.Vaughan acknowledged the dominance of the IPL as a "big juggernaut" and suggested that it is financially beneficial for cricket boards to allow their players to participate in the tournament. He expressed concern about the impact of the IPL and Pakistan Super League (PSL) on the English county game, which could lose players to these lucrative competitions.Hafeez's criticism highlights the ongoing debate over the balance between international cricket and franchise-based tournaments. While the IPL has become a global phenomenon, attracting top players and generating significant revenue, it has also raised concerns about its potential to overshadow international cricket.The ICC has a responsibility to ensure that the international cricket calendar is fair and equitable, allowing all teams to compete on a level playing field. It is important to strike a balance between the financial benefits of franchise tournaments and the integrity of international cricket.

IPL vs. International Cricket: A Clash of PrioritiesThe recent comments by England captain Jos Buttler, suggesting that international cricket should not clash with the Indian Premier League (IPL), have sparked a heated debate within the cricketing community. Buttler's remarks, made ahead of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024, have raised questions about the balance between domestic and international cricket.Former Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez has strongly criticized Buttler's stance, emphasizing the importance of national pride and duty. Hafeez argues that representing one's country should be the ultimate priority for any cricketer, regardless of financial incentives.Buttler's comments have also drawn support from former England captain Michael Vaughan, who acknowledges the growing significance of the IPL. Vaughan believes that the IPL's financial rewards and global reach make it increasingly difficult for international boards to compete.However, Hafeez questions the morality of prioritizing the IPL over national commitments. He argues that it sends the wrong message to young cricketers and undermines the spirit of international competition.The debate has also highlighted the potential impact on domestic cricket. Adam Gilchrist, another former England captain, points out that the IPL's schedule overlaps with domestic tournaments, forcing players to make difficult choices.The clash between the IPL and international cricket is a complex issue with no easy solutions. As the IPL continues to grow in popularity and financial clout, it is likely to continue to challenge the traditional hierarchy of cricket.However, it is crucial to ensure that the pursuit of financial gain does not overshadow the fundamental values of the sport. National pride, international competition, and the development of domestic cricket must remain at the heart of the game.

The Hundred, England's domestic 100-ball cricket competition, is attracting interest from Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises. According to Mark Nicholas, the MCC president and future chairman of London Spirit, five IPL teams have expressed a "soft" interest in acquiring a stake in the Lord's-based franchise.This development comes as MCC considers accepting the ECB's offer of a 51% stake in London Spirit as part of the Hundred's privatization drive. Under the proposed model, the eight Hundred "hosts" will receive majority stakes in their respective teams, with the ECB selling the remaining 49% to private investors through a bidding process.Nicholas emphasized the importance of member support for MCC's decision, describing the move towards private equity as a "monumental" step that will ultimately benefit cricket at all levels. He highlighted the global boom in cricket franchises and the need for English cricket to capitalize on this opportunity.The ECB has appointed Raine Group and Deloitte as advisors for the Hundred privatization. While there is no formal deadline, the ECB aims to finalize terms by the end of the year. However, Nicholas acknowledged that several issues still need to be resolved, including the bidding process and the rollout of franchises.The World Cricket Connects symposium, hosted by MCC on July 5, will provide a platform for influential figures in cricket to discuss the future of the game. BCCI secretary Jay Shah, senior IPL officials, and prominent current and former cricketers are expected to attend. Nicholas believes it is crucial to listen to the voices of potential bidders, who have driven the success of cricket franchises worldwide.

Lucknow Super Giants Owner's Outburst: Rishabh Pant Weighs InOver a month after Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) owner Sanjiv Goenka's angry outburst at skipper KL Rahul, Delhi Capitals (DC) captain Rishabh Pant has shared his perspective on the incident.Goenka's outburst, captured on camera, occurred after LSG suffered a humiliating defeat to SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) in a crucial match. SRH chased down a 166-run target in just 58 balls, marking the biggest loss in IPL history in terms of balls to spare.Pant, while acknowledging that he was unaware of the specific details of the exchange between Goenka and Rahul, emphasized that such conversations are common after heavy losses. He also revealed that he has experienced similar exchanges but handles them in his own way."I actually didn't understand what happened in that situation. It seemed so by looking at it, and although I'm not sure what happened, there was something there. When you lose a match, there are obviously a lot of conversations. But the way it was portrayed, I'm not sure. I didn't see the video in real-time; otherwise, I would have given you an answer. I get scolded every day, but I'm also stubborn," Pant said on 'Aap ki Adalat' on India TV.Goenka's attachment to LSG is evident, having bid over Rs 7000 crore to acquire the franchise in 2021. Under Rahul's captaincy, LSG reached the playoffs in its first two years. However, this year, the team finished outside the top four.The franchise underwent a significant management change, with Justin Langer replacing Andy Flower as head coach. Despite these changes, LSG failed to replicate its previous success.Pant's comments highlight the pressure and scrutiny that team owners and captains face in the high-stakes environment of the IPL. While such exchanges may be common, they underscore the importance of maintaining professionalism and finding constructive ways to address team performance.

Former New Zealand and Mumbai Indians fast bowler Mitchell McClenaghan has strongly refuted accusations from a Pakistani journalist that the New Zealand team prioritized money over national duty by choosing to participate in the Indian Premier League (IPL) instead of touring Pakistan.The accusations arose after New Zealand's disappointing performance in the ongoing T20 World Cup, where they suffered back-to-back losses against Afghanistan and hosts West Indies, putting them on the brink of elimination. Pakistani journalist Imran Siddiqui took to social media to criticize New Zealand's decision to send a weakened team to Pakistan, claiming that it had hindered their preparations for the World Cup.McClenaghan, known for his outspoken nature, responded with a scathing reply, highlighting Pakistan's own poor form in the tournament. He pointed out that Pakistan had lost to New Zealand's "C side," as well as Ireland and the USA, in recent matches."Very poor take. You (Pakistan) lost games to our C side, Ireland, and the USA," McClenaghan tweeted.Pakistan has indeed struggled in the T20 World Cup, losing to both the USA and India. In the lead-up to the tournament, they had drawn a T20I series against a New Zealand side without their key players. McClenaghan emphasized this fact, suggesting that Pakistan's own lack of preparation was a more significant factor in their poor performance.The former Kiwi pacer also agreed with a comment that Sherfane Rutherford, who has not played a single game for Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2024, has performed well for the West Indies in the World Cup. This further supports the argument that IPL participation is not necessarily detrimental to international performance.Several New Zealand stars, including Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Mitchell Santner, Trent Boult, Lockie Ferguson, Glenn Phillips, and captain Kane Williamson, had played in IPL 2024. However, McClenaghan's response suggests that their absence from the Pakistan tour was not a major factor in New Zealand's struggles in the World Cup.The Black Caps have been disappointing in the tournament, failing to chase down 150 against West Indies and getting bowled out for 75 by Afghanistan. They are now virtually out of contention with two games still to play.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has witnessed remarkable financial growth in the past year, with its business value surging by 6.5% to US$16.4 billion and its brand value increasing by 6.3% to US$3.4 billion, according to a report by global investment bank Houlihan Lokey.The report highlights the growing appeal of the IPL as a business enterprise and brand, attracting esteemed brands seeking to enhance their value. The title sponsorship for the IPL has been secured by the Tata Group for a further five-year period, from 2024 until 2028, for approximately US$300 million, reflecting the league's status as a pivotal platform for brands.In terms of franchise valuations, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) remains the most valued franchise, despite failing to make it to the playoffs in 2024. CSK's brand value stands at US$231.0 million, a 9% growth from the previous year.The IPL 2024 winners, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), have seen the highest growth in brand value, with a 19.30% rise from 2023. KKR's brand value now stands at US$216.0 million, securing them the third spot in the rankings.Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) ranks second in both brand and business value, with a brand worth of US$227.0 million. Five-time champions Mumbai Indians (MI), despite their immense popularity, trail in fourth place with a brand value of US$204.0 million.The report also notes the return of Hardik Pandya as captain of MI, solidifying the team's status as one of the most evolving franchises in IPL history.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has revolutionized cricket, transforming it from a sport into a lucrative business venture. Former Pakistani all-rounder Shahid Afridi highlights the profound impact of the IPL on the evolution of cricket, particularly in white-ball cricket.The IPL has paved the way for numerous other leagues worldwide, signifying the immense financial potential associated with shorter formats. "Money has come in, things have changed. Cricket has become a business; it used to be a sport," Afridi said. "There's a lot of commercialization, leagues are happening everywhere in the world. Honestly, the IPL has opened the eyes of all leagues with the way money is involved in white-ball cricket."The influx of money has attracted players and opened doors for those previously overlooked. "Previously, there was money in county cricket as well, but it was for a long season of 6 months, and the red ball was involved. I think money is present in every league now because it has become commercialized," Afridi added.While playing for one's national team remains the ultimate achievement, the emergence of these leagues has provided alternative avenues for cricketers who may not have had the opportunity to represent their countries. "However, playing for the country is a significant achievement. It has its own unique satisfaction. Cricketers who don't get a chance to play for their national teams find opportunities in different leagues, which also brings financial benefits and support for their families," Afridi concluded.The IPL's commercialization has demonstrated the potential for substantial financial gains in white-ball cricket, leading to the proliferation of leagues across various countries. This has not only attracted players but has also opened doors for those who were previously overlooked, providing them with opportunities to showcase their talents and earn a living through cricket.

Gautam Gambhir, the former Indian cricketer known for his serious demeanor, has often been stereotyped as a strict disciplinarian. However, beneath his stern exterior lies a complex and multifaceted individual.As a cricketer, Gambhir held his own in an illustrious Indian batting lineup that included legends like Virender Sehwag, Rahul Dravid, Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, and V.V.S. Laxman. Despite not possessing the flamboyant style of some of his teammates, Gambhir was a reliable and effective batsman, averaging 41.95 in Tests and 39.68 in ODIs. His contributions were crucial in India's victories in the 2007 ICC World T20 and the 2011 World Cup.However, it is Gambhir's fiery temperament that has often overshadowed his cricketing achievements. His on-field altercations with fellow Delhi player Virat Kohli are well-documented. Like former Australian captain Steve Waugh, Gambhir found solace in anger, using it as a tool to unleash his inner gladiator.Off the field, Gambhir has been equally outspoken. His involvement in political debates and his public spats with Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal have raised eyebrows. Yet, beneath this tough exterior, there is a softer side to Gambhir. He has always been known for his loyalty and his willingness to mentor young players.As a coach, Gambhir has guided Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to three IPL titles, including the most recent one in 2023. His ability to motivate and inspire his team has earned him respect and admiration.Despite his success as a player and coach, Gambhir's name is often mentioned as a potential successor to Rahul Dravid as the Indian team's coach. However, his fiery nature and tendency to speak his mind may raise concerns among some.Ultimately, Gautam Gambhir is a complex and enigmatic figure. He is a fierce competitor on the field, but also a compassionate and loyal individual off it. His journey from a serious first-bencher to a successful player and coach is a testament to his resilience and determination.

Shreyas Iyer, India's middle-order batter, has expressed his disappointment over the lack of communication and unfavorable decisions that followed the ODI World Cup last year. Despite his impressive performance in the tournament, where he was the third-highest run-scorer for India, Iyer was excluded from the BCCI's central contract list.Iyer's exclusion was reportedly due to the perception that he and wicketkeeper-batsman Ishan Kishan had prioritized the IPL over domestic cricket. While Kishan had skipped domestic cricket entirely in the first half of the year, Iyer had participated in a few Ranji Trophy matches."Due to lack of communication, there were some decisions that didn't go in my favor," Iyer said in a video released on his YouTube page. "But at the end of the day, the bat is always going to be in my hand and it's on me how to perform and win trophies."Iyer's determination was evident in his performances in the Ranji Trophy and IPL. He captained Kolkata Knight Riders to their third IPL title win this year and played a crucial role in Mumbai's Ranji Trophy triumph."I decided that once I win Ranji Trophy and IPL, that would be an apt answer for whatever happened in the past," Iyer said. "Thankfully, everything fell to the right place."Iyer also credited his hard work in the nets at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru for his improved form. "After the surgery, I was at NCA, practicing in the nets. I have never batted for so long in my life," he said. "I used to always restrict myself from batting in the nets because I complained that the wickets weren't that great.""Suddenly, I just told myself that 'put yourself in tough situations because the war is won outside the field, not on the field'," he added. "When you play with your mind, when you challenge your mind to put yourself in tough situations and you decide for yourself whether you're going to win or not."Iyer's determination and hard work have paid off, and he is now back in contention for a place in the Indian team. His performances in the upcoming series against Australia will be crucial in determining his future with the national side.