Icl Series Close To Collapse

The rebel Indian Cricket League appears to be close to collapse after it was revealed that a number of outstanding payments were due to players and officials alike.

Even if the ICL succeeds in paying everyone owned, in what is believed to be a debt that runs into the millions, the players and umpires have become increasingly sceptical about becoming involved in the tournament again.

‘They will never see me again,’ stated Andrew Hall, a former South African international who played for the Chandigarh Lions.

He added that even if the ICL pays him the full amount upfront for a new contract, he will never again set foot into the league.

The 34-year-old Hall is also furious because he has had to give up his international career and he refused a contract in the more lucrative and officially endorsed Indian Premier League (IPL) offered to him at the same time.

The ICL used what money it had to appoint lawyers to fight their case against the International Cricket Council and cricket authorities in England and India – a decision which left them unable to pay the players.

The players handed the matter over to the International Players Union (FICA) who then made it public.

‘FICA and the players are constantly informed that the responsibilities will be carried out on certain dates. These dates come and go without any proof of payment to the players, officials and the supporting staff,’ read a statement from the players’ union.

Tim May, the CEO of FICA, said further that although the ICL receives official recognition, it will now struggle to get players. He says that failure to meet the payment of players has resulted in them losing confidence in the ICL.

‘With this history and treatment, no player will want to play in it. They will have to win back the trust of the playing community and that is why they must pay the outstanding wages.’