Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg has said that while the board keeps conversing with BCCI to let their male players participate in the Big Bash League, probably the second or third-largest T20 league in the world, adding that he would love to see ace India batter Virat Kohli play in the league.
There has been a longstanding debate on the BCCI’s decision not to allow its male players to take part in overseas T20 leagues, while the rule is different for the female cricketers.
The likes of Harmanpreet Kaur, Smriti Mandhana and Jemimah Rodrigues have consistently played the WBBL over the years.
“We would love to welcome some Indian players to the BBL. That’s certainly some conversations that we will continue to have with the BCCI I would love to see Virat Kohli playing in the BBL this year,” Greenberg said while speaking to the media during an interaction organised by Cricket Australia.
“That would certainly create some interest in crowds and ratings, I’m sure, but at the moment, that’s not happening, but we do have our ambitions to do those types of things,” Greenberg added.
BCCI restricts Indian players from taking part in other leagues to protect the integrity of its domestic cricket, the IPL especially.
BCCI prioritises the Indian Premier League, a lucrative tournament and fears that permitting cricketers to take part in other leagues could diminish its value.
BCCI wants to ensure that domestic cricket, including the Ranji Trophy, remains strong as a feeder system for international players as well.
Other leagues might not be able to offer the same level of compensation that the Indian Premier League provides.
The schedules of many international T20 leagues often conflict with India’s domestic season, making it tough for cricketers to take part in both.
The Big Bash League presumably begins from the third week of December, towards the end of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, India’s premier domestic T20 tournament.
Six to seven days after this event, the Vijay Hazare Trophy also begins.
BCCI wants to protect cricketers from over-exposure, as playing in several leagues can lead to fatigue.
