CSA proposes to launch T20 league to stop losing players to Kolpak deal

SportsCafe Desk

BySportsCafe Desk, SportsCafe Editor

27
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Cricket South Africa’s chief executive Haroon Lorgat believes that their proposed franchise-based Professional Twenty20 League would help in preventing key players from opting for the Kolpak agreement. Lorgat also said ICC chief Shashank Manohar was supportive of the idea.

In recent months, seven South Africa cricketers - Dane Vilas, Kyle Abbott, Rilee Rossouw, David Wiese, Hardus Viljoen, Stiaan van Zyl, and Simon Harmer - opted to play county cricket in England on the Kolpak agreement which means they cannot turn out for their country during the length of the deal with the county.

"Yes, I must say that when we conceptualised a franchise-based T20 league the Kolpak was a major consideration. Obviously, you want to give an opportunity to the South African players to grow and also make a career out of cricket," Lorgat was quoted as saying by PTI.

"Earlier, the only way to have a good career was to play for the South African national team but this league with eight teams will have 88 slots for Proteas players," added the former ICC chief.."

"Mr. Manohar was very supportive of the idea and obviously he knew the considerations kept in mind while announcing a franchise-based league. The members gave a favourable response when the concept was presented to them. Everyone understands that the game needs to grow and we have to find new avenues to do that.”

The BCCI hasn’t allowed its players to participate in foreign leagues.

"International cricket is sacrosanct and there would be no compromise. But it would be incredible for the league if we get a player like Virat Kohli on board. But I know how tough it is for top Indian players to take time out of their hectic schedule. But we would like to get the second rung of Indian players. I have not had a chance to discuss with BCCI's current dispensation and that's why I would not like to presume anything," Lorgat said.

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