Cricket Australia Supports Players' Choices Amid IPL and WTC Final Clash
Cricket Australia Backs Players' Decisions on IPL Participation
On Tuesday, Cricket Australia announced its support for players making their own choices regarding participation in the Indian Premier League (IPL), even as the tournament's resumption coincides with preparations for the World Test Championship (WTC) final.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed on Monday that the IPL will restart on May 17, with the final scheduled for June 3.
This situation presents a challenge for Test players from Australia and South Africa, as the WTC final is set to commence on June 11 at Lord's.
In a statement, Cricket Australia expressed, "Following the IPL's resumption announcement, we will support our players in their individual decisions regarding a return to India."
They added, "Team management will address the preparation implications for the WTC final for those who opt to participate in the remaining IPL matches."
Cricket Australia is also in ongoing discussions with the Australian government and the BCCI concerning security and safety measures.
The IPL was halted last Friday due to escalating military tensions between India and Pakistan.
Under the new schedule, the tournament will conclude just eight days prior to the WTC final in London, where Australia will face South Africa.
In light of the unrest, several Australian players, including captain Pat Cummins, fast bowlers Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood, have returned to Australia.
Only a handful of former players, such as Ricky Ponting and Brad Haddin, who are involved in coaching roles, remain in India.
Other coaches, including Justin Langer and Mike Hussey, have also returned home due to the increasing border tensions.
Australian Test players currently participating in the IPL who may be affected include Cummins and Travis Head (both with Sunrisers Hyderabad), Starc (Delhi Capitals), and Hazlewood (Royal Challengers Bengaluru).
While Sunrisers Hyderabad is out of playoff contention, Royal Challengers Bengaluru is in a strong position to qualify, and Delhi Capitals are still in the race.