SYDNEY: Several prominent players from Australia will not be available for first half of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 due to the series against Pakistan.
Australian skipper Pat Cummins, Steve Smith, and David Warner were all included in the auction. Cricket Australia laid down a strong ruling that their players were not allowed to abandon international duty for the IPL.
Two players who are sought after – they have been listed in the marquee set (first 10) – are Test captain Pat Cummins and opener Dave Warner. Both have been picked for the three-Test series against Pakistan that ends on March 25. The duo is also likely to be selected for the following white-ball series that ends on April 5.
The quarantine protocol – it is likely to be six days – before players can join the team bubble complicates overseas player availability this year.
Earlier, George Bailey, Australia’s chairman of selectors had said that IPL is not a good enough “development opportunity” for them to release their players.
“We do see the IPL as a really good development opportunity when it fits, but there’s obviously a huge amount of cricket with a series (in Sri Lanka) planned for immediately-post the IPL as well.”
He later reiterated and passed a clear ruling on the matter. “So, it will be about working with the individuals to ensure they’re getting the preparation they need, but we certainly won’t be releasing players to the IPL while Australia are playing.”
