New Delhi: IPL is the most successful franchise cricket league in the world. In terms of money, participation of world-class players and presence on social media, IPL is an unparalleled league when compared to other Twenty20 leagues in the world.
There are reports coming out of the Arab world that this infallibility of the IPL will be shaken. There are reports that Saudi Arabia is preparing to start the world’s richest Twenty20 cricket league in the country. It is reported that they contacted the IPL owners themselves for this. After looking at football and Formula One, Saudi Arabia’s next step is cricket.
BCCI has banned Indian players from playing in foreign leagues as of now. But the board may be ready to compromise in this regard if the Saudi Arabia government’s proposal regarding the new Twenty20 league comes.
According to a report by The Age, discussions on this issue have been going on for the past one year. But before taking a step forward, the approval of the ICC is required in this regard. ICC Chairman Greg Barclay had earlier confirmed Saudi Arabia’s interest in cricket.
Reports suggest that there are also possibilities of hosting the Asia Cup and IPL opening match or a round in Saudi Arabia.