BCCI needs to give NOC to youngsters to participate in T20 Leagues, says Anil Kumble

Over the course of the last decade, the BCCI has come under criticism for not providing a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to Indian players to participate in T20 Leagues around the world. However, they might be gradually changing their stance on the matter, as all-rounder Yuvraj Singh, who recently announced his international retirement, was provided NOC to participate in Canada's Global T20 League.

Former Indian spinner Anil Kumble has now stated that the BCCI would need to look into providing NOC for more youngsters and encourage them to play in overseas T20 Leagues, due to the exposure they'll get from it. He also feels that more youngsters might follow Yuvraj's path and look to participate in T20 leagues around the world.

"Yes, I feel that is something the BCCI will look at, but currently there are certain restrictions. But having said that, you know people like Yuvi have got the permission to go and play (in Global T20). So, I don't see any issue if some of these players want to go and play, but the BCCI will have to give them NOC," Kumble was quoted as saying to IANS, reported India today.

"At this point in time, it is good to have someone like Yuvi play in the leagues and in the future you will perhaps see more players from India participating in the leagues," he added. 

Kumble also believes that such a move will help grow the sport globally, and also increase fan following for the Indian players all around the world. He also said that having experienced Indian players would also be beneficial for the league itself, helping to grow its brand.

"One is to get the experience of the player in the league and the second is the following that the Indian player has back home and that is massive. Any player from India gets massive support, the Indian team gets massive support across the world," Kumble said. 

"So, the following of the league and their heroes is massive. And in that sense it is a big moment if any Indian player plays in these leagues. Yuvi playing in different leagues apart from the IPL will be followed as well," he further added.

Kumble, who has been associated with the Euro T20 Slam, is a board member of the advisory committee. When quizzed about the reason for his association with the league, he explained that idea of growing and expanding cricket around Europe interested him, with the league sporting franchises from various countries, including Ireland, Netherlands and Scotland. 

"For me the development of cricket in this region is what attracted me. I know there are a lot of T20 leagues that have cropped up, but I feel the development of Europe and Ireland being a Full Member now and having Test status is something that attracted me," he concluded.