Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar has come out in strong support. Indian Premier League (IPL) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) are facing fresh criticism over the increasing influence of franchise cricket on the international calendar.
The debate gained momentum during and after the 2026 IPL season, particularly in England, where several former players and experts expressed concerns about cricketers prioritizing franchise commitments over national duties. The spotlight was mainly on England fast bowler Jofra Archer, who remained with Rajasthan Royals for the IPL playoffs and subsequently missed England's opening Test against New Zealand.
Young England batsman Jacob Bethell also found himself at the center of attention at the beginning of the season. Former England captain Alastair Cook had suggested that Bethel would benefit more from returning to county cricket to prepare for the upcoming red-ball season after getting limited opportunities in the IPL.
Responding to all these comments made by foreign experts, Gavaskar expressed his disappointment at what he believes is a recurring trend of criticism of Indian cricket and the BCCI by foreign commentators and former players.
“It's natural to bash Indian cricket and the BCCI. But when it comes to revenue, they still have to come to the BCCI because it is Indian cricket and Indian fans that fill their coffers, even more than their traditional rivalry,” Gavaskar wrote in his column for Mid-Day.
Gavaskar also highlighted the financial benefits foreign cricket boards get through the IPL contracts signed by their players.
He said, “Complaining about the IPL and their players not being available for their country is another favorite pastime. Yet not a word is said about the 10% their board gets from each player's fee for their country.”
The former India captain further explained that the IPL is unique among major T20 leagues in sharing a percentage of foreign players' earnings with their respective cricket boards. He compared it to competitions such as The Hundred and the big bash league (BBL), which do not offer similar arrangements.
“This adds up to over a million pounds every year. Does The Hundred give any percentage to its board of overseas players playing in its tournament? No sir. Does the BBL or any other country's T20 league give any percentage to its overseas players' board. Again no sir. Only the IPL does. Yet the whining about the BCCI and Indian cricket goes on. Wake up and enjoy your coffee, friends. Indian cricket is here to stay, whether you want to put it down to it or not.” No matter how hard you try to pull.” He added.
Meanwhile, former England captain Kevin Pietersen had backed players like Jacob Bethel to participate in a league like IPL as it provides exposure like no other league.
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