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'IPL is Such an Important Part of...': Clive Lloyd Defends Franchise Cricket Amidst Country vs Money Debate

image-ljb8kp4pLlyod has defended IPL amidst criticism [iplt20.com]

Renowned former West Indies captain, Clive Lloyd, has vehemently disagreed with the notion that the significance of playing for one's country has waned due to the proliferation of franchise leagues like the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Clive Lloyd backs IPL amidst criticism

While endorsing tournaments such as the IPL, Lloyd expressed his belief that cricketers deserve substantial financial rewards for their endeavors on the field.

The debate surrounding loyalty to the country versus monetary gains was reignited following India's defeat to Australia in the World Test Championship (WTC) final, which occurred shortly after the IPL 2023 summit clash.

Speaking on the show 'Backstage With Boria' to commemorate the 40th anniversary of India's 1983 World Cup victory, Lloyd candidly shared his perspective on T20 leagues, emphasizing the need for a designated window for players to participate in the IPL, considering its significance in their lives.

"I think that if IPL is such an important part of their lives, just give them a window so that they can play IPL. Yes, a window would be excellent, I think, because they are earning a good living. And do not forget, you are giving your best part, the best days of your life to this sport. So why not be paid for it?" questioned Lloyd.

Drawing a parallel with the exorbitant earnings of icons like Michael Jordan and footballers, Lloyd questioned why cricket should be treated differently.

“When Michael Jordan and all these footballers were earning millions per month, nobody said anything about it. Why cricket should be different?” added the West Indies legend.

The two-time World Cup winnings captain recognized the players' freedom to choose franchise cricket, he stressed the importance of not undermining their dedication to representing their country. As a nation with a modest population of merely five and a half million, the Windies veteran expressed concern over the potential loss of talented individuals and the resultant struggle to replenish the team's ranks.

“You cannot stop them from doing that. It gives them a good future. But the point is that they should not do this to the detriment of playing for their country or their nation. And we suffer because we are only five and a half million people. So if we groom twenty players and lose ten, it is like digging a hole to fill a hole. And I do not want that,” stated the 78-year-old.

The legendary skipper advocated for a scenario where players genuinely aspire to play for their country, giving their utmost and contributing to the team's success.