BCCI is unwilling to offer any respite to players wanting to play overseas. With several stars now announcing retirement to seek avenues abroad, the Indian Cricket Board is mulling a cooling-off period. While 12 months have been mooted, a final decision will be taken at the BCCI Apex Council Meeting on July 7.
The concerns for BCCI grew after Ambati Rayudu announced his retirement after Chennai Super Kings (CSK) reached the final of IPL 2023. However, days after CSK clinched the title, Rayudu was announced as one of the overseas signings for the inaugural Major League Cricket (MLC) season. The former India international will feature for the Texas Super Kings, a sister franchise of CSK.
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As per multiple reports, the BCCI is worried that such a move sets a dangerous precedent. At present, there is no policy on retired players playing overseas. The board will discuss making one at the Apex Council Meeting. As per Indian Express, players might have to undergo a one-year cooling period. Should they want to feature in Indian cricket in any capacity, obtaining a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the board will become mandatory.
Like Ambati Rayudu, former India internationals Robin Uthappa and Yusuf Pathan played in ILT20 last year for the Dubai Capitals. With T20 leagues mushrooming around the globe, there rare concerns that more Indian players could follow them. IPL franchises dominate ownership in the CPL, SA20, ILT20 and MLC.
Several former cricketers have called for Indian players to be allowed in foreign leagues. The BCCI however remains adamant about holding onto their domestic talent. The cooling-off period thus discourages Indian players from participating in overseas leagues.
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