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IPL must support Pakistan’s cricketers
By Tabrez Janjua for Stani Army in General Cricket
55 ViewsThe possibility of the IPL moving offshore brings sadness and perhaps opportunity. Cricket is now so cowed by fear of terrorism that three South Asian nations have had key tournaments disrupted within weeks of the Lahore attacks. While a contest between Pakistan and Bangladesh would have struggled to set the pulse racing, the Indian Premier League managed to enthrall even the most skeptical of cricket fans. Much of that fascination was created by the passion of India’s cricket fans, the biggest losers if the tournament is relocated.
The opportunities, however, carry their own fascination – especially for Pakistan cricket fans. Importantly, a successful offshore IPL will ease Pakistan’s transition to a team of globetrotters. Furthermore, the PCB and IPL could consider reinstating Pakistan’s cricketers if the tournament is outside India. Is that too much too ask? Aren’t all nations victims of terrorism? Why should Pakistan’s players be penalised and prevented from participating in a purportedly global tournament? Don’t Pakistan’s cricketers require support from the international cricket community to help competitive international cricket to survive in Pakistan?
The IPL has an opportunity to show that cricket has the power to repair damaged national relationships, and that it will not be cowed by terrorism. Indeed, becoming the premier world competition is not simply a matter of financial muscle, it is also a matter of leading by impeccable example.
Published with the permission of Dr Kamran Abbasi. Also posted at cricinfo.com
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March 25th, 2009 at 7:24 pm
In theory there is no reason they should refuse. In practice its gonna be pretty difficult because of the lack of time.
March 25th, 2009 at 9:28 pm
I think most of the franchises have used up their money anyway so they wouldn’t be able to buy anyone.
March 26th, 2009 at 1:26 am
The fact that everyone’s kept quiet about it says it all. Had it been one of the “Western” nations who were in Pakistan’s position, there would have been a uproar.
Nevertheless, this is just the beginning of the end of the IPL. Soon it will be finished.
March 26th, 2009 at 7:06 pm
Luqman and Shez are right….short of time and most franchises have used their money.
I’m not to bothered about their inclusion. We shouldnt support this tournament, run by those that do not help pakistan in its hour of need.
It not going to be as interesting this season I feel. Partly because of the withdrawal of the pakistani talent.
March 27th, 2009 at 7:47 pm
Agree with Underarm. This is the beginning of the end for Modi and his cohorts