Ambati Rayudu withdraws from inagural MLC season

Ambati Rayudu recently announced his IPL retirement and returned to cricket as he signed a deal with Texas Super Kings for the inaugural MLC season. However, Rayudu won’t be able to play for the Texas Super Kings due to personal reasons.

Interestingly, the news of Rayudu’s withdrawal from the MLC Season 1 coincided with BCCI secretary Jay Shah hinting at the board’s contemplation of a policy concerning predetermined retirements of Indian cricketers for foreign leagues. Shah mentioned the development of a policy aimed at curbing the trend of pre-determined retirements and stated that the proposed policy would be sent back to the Apex Council for approval within a month.

The BCCI has been grappling with the issue of Indian players retiring prematurely to participate in lucrative T20 leagues abroad. With concerns regarding this trend, the Apex Council has entrusted the board’s office-bearers with the task of formulating a policy on the involvement of retired Indian players in foreign leagues.

The primary aim of the BCCI is to address the concerns related to predetermined retirements and prevent potential exploitation. The introduction of a cooling-off period is being considered, but careful consideration and the final decision rests with the BCCI.

The proposed policy has faced criticism for being exploitative and discriminatory, raising concerns about individual rights. Fans, observers, and journalists have expressed discontent and questioned the legality and fairness on social media. The BCCI is at a crucial juncture, aiming to balance Indian cricket interests with players’ aspirations.