Written by Vaibhav Tripathi
Jason Roy, part of England’s 2019 World Cup-winning side, is reportedly on the verge of terminating his central contract with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) in order to join the LA Knight Riders for the upcoming Major League Cricket (MLC) season in the USA. The tournament is scheduled to take place from July 13 to July 30. Discussions between Roy and ECB officials regarding his move to the franchise are in progress, and an official announcement is expected in the near future. According to rumours, Roy is set to receive a lucrative two-year contract worth INR 30.69 crore.
If Roy proceeds with the cancellation of his central contract, it could have implications for his international cricket career. This situation underscores the growing impact of T20 leagues on the global cricket landscape, as players increasingly prioritise financial opportunities over their commitments to the national team.
The lure of these leagues and the financial rewards they offer is becoming more influential, leading players to make decisions that may affect their availability for international matches. As the popularity of T20 leagues continues to rise, cricket boards and governing bodies will need to find a balance that allows players to participate in them, while also ensuring the strength and competitiveness of international cricket.