NEW DELHI - The Indian Premier League remains cricket’s financial powerhouse, yet it trails international rivals in player protection standards. A new assessment by the World Cricketers’ Association ranks the IPL third among ten global leagues.
England’s The Hundred led the rankings with a score of 75.2, followed by South Africa’s SA20 at 68. The IPL scored 62.6. While the tournament secured maximum points for average payment and reliability, it fell short on the right to organize and dispute resolution mechanisms.
WCA Chief Executive Tom Moffat emphasized that league growth must coincide with improved player safeguards. "We want all sanctioned leagues to be successful, and to provide fair protections and standards for people within them," Moffat stated.
Criticism persists regarding the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s policies. Recent controversies include the exclusion of Bangladeshi player Mustafizur Rahman and restrictions preventing contracted athletes from joining other franchise competitions globally.
The 19th season launches March 28, with defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru opening against Sunrisers Hyderabad.