Indian Premier League
Domestic franchises: Opportunity or impending doom?
Moving into the 21st century, there has been a rapid evolution in the way cricket is played, displayed and perceived. What was once a long format, five day game of the greats, is now a much more aggressive, high-speed, expeditious and glamorous display of skill.
Don’t get me wrong, it’s not easy to survive in new-age cricket. The way cricketers are stepping into the light, with stone-cold mindsets, wanting to cement their place in a sphere where talent is readily available and players are highly replaceable, there is always someone who is better, quicker, or nicer. It's not an easy job.
Indian Premier League 2022 closing ceremony
This is where domestic franchise leagues come into the picture, this big glamorous world of cricket and money. And what’s not to like? Players are given a path to climb, a spotlight to shine and a bag load of money. They get to rub shoulders with the greats and the greats get to rub shoulders with stardom and luxury.
Alas, these franchise leagues have a downside. Lately, there has been an increase in the manufacturing of single-format players (T20s to be specific), cricketers are moving or let’s say shying away from playing longer formats of the game.
There’s a newfound preference for playing domestic franchise leagues over international cricket, though it is understandable. The difference in pay is colossal, you only have to play for a few months while still living a comfortable life (financially).
 "Gargi Raut")
