ICC hints at annual window for IPL from '09 Agencies

ICC hints at annual window for IPL from '09 Agencies


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Melbourne, February 26:: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has hinted that the Indian Premier League (IPL) could have an annual window from next year to ensure that top international players are available for the lucrative Twenty20 extravaganza.



ICC chief executive Malcolm Speed said the move would be approved if supported by seven member nations of the ICC, although it would be extremely difficult to negotiate. He made it clear that the IPL schedule should not dictate the international fixtures.




"Countries could agree to move their tours," Speed said.




"This would be permitted by ICC if it can be achieved without having a flow-on effect for any other tour or ICC event. For the members to agree that there is to be a permanent window in the international schedule, for the IPL, which is a domestic competition, seven full members would need to vote in favour of it," he was quoted as saying by The Sydney Morning Herald.




Speed said the IPL could be a beneficial concept for the game but he reserved judgement on its consequences.




"There are several possible benefits that may emerge from IPL. I have been critical in the past of BCCI's failure to exploit the commercial power of India's remarkable passion for the game. Time will tell whether the IPL has a positive or negative effect on the game." Speed, who steps down in July, said international matches were paramount in cricket and should not be tampered with.




"International cricket is the lifeblood of the ICC members. Apart from India, they do not receive any financial reward from the IPL," he said.




"It is a paramount consideration for them that they maintain their international schedules and play at the times that suit them best.




"International cricketers have been coached and developed by their home countries, states, provinces, counties and clubs. They are in demand by IPL teams because they are international cricketers. Their primary duty is to their country," he added.