Cricketers from all over the world travel to India in the summer to compete in the Indian Premier competition (IPL), which is considered to be the biggest competition in the world. Big money that comes along with the bigger stage controls the interest of even international cricket players. These leagues sprang up all around the world, inspired by the Indian Premier League. Former Pakistani captain Shahid Afridi asserted that cricket has turned into a business, taking this tendency into consideration.
The commercial companies involved have benefited monetarily greatly from the growing fan base for cricket. The professional cricket game is being sustained by uncapped players as well as an abundance of sponsors and advertisements. Afridi reiterated that even County cricket used to spend money, albeit for a taxing six-month slog, despite the fact that it is primarily observed in white ball cricket.
“Observe, things have altered since money entered the picture. It used to be a sport, but now since it’s a business, cricket is a business rather than a sport. Leagues are taking place all around the world, and there is a lot of commercialization. The way money is engaged in white-ball cricket has really awakened the eyes of all leagues, Afridi said to the 180 Not Out podcast.
Also read: After the IND-PAK match, Shahid Afridi discloses his talk with Yuvraj Singh
In the past, county cricket also offered financial benefits, but only for a six-month season during which the red ball was used. Since it has gotten more commercialised, I believe that money is now prevalent in every level. Players are receiving money when it comes in. Because of this, athletes are drawn to the game even if they are not representing their nation; also, they have opportunity to play in several leagues, which is beneficial,” he continued.
The facilities for players are set by the IPL.
Speaking about the financial benefits for cricket players, Australian pacers Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc were acquired by their respective IPL teams for a record amount before to the 2024 tournament.
Cummins joined Sunrisers Hyderabad for 20.5 crore, while Starc signed a 24.75 crore contract with the Kolkata Knight Riders. Furthermore, in a record-breaking deal worth 15 crore, Hardik Pandya was traded from the Gujarat Titans to the Mumbai Indians.
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