The ICC (International Cricket Council) Board have approved changes to ICC Sanctioning Regulations (for T20 Leagues) designed to support all Members to create sustainable revenue streams and develop the game whilst preserving and protecting the integrity of the sport and the welfare of those participating. The decision was taken during the 2023 ICC Annual General Meeting (AGM) held from July 10th – 14th, 2023 in Durban, South Africa.
Moving forwards, new events requiring a sanction will need to ensure the playing XI of each team will include a minimum of seven (7) local or Associate Member players to support the development of the game. Additionally, a solidarity fee will be payable from the organizing Member to the Home Board of a player to reflect the role the Member played in developing and promoting the sport globally. The rule change, however, would not impact any operations in the currently sanctioned events like International League T20 (ILT20), GT20 Canada and Major League Cricket (MLC)/Minor League Cricket (MiLC) organized in United Arab Emirates, Canada and United States of America respectively. The remaining four (4) spots in the playing XI can be made up of overseas professionals from Full-member countries or Associate member countries, who are either active or have retired in the past 24 months, at the time of signing for the league.
It does stop entities in Associate countries with strong financial back-up to start a full fledged T20 league with majority of squad consisting of International players. But is a loss for their own homegrown talent in long-term, as broadcasting/sponsorships backers will be less for these leagues now going forward. And with most of the globally known players from Full member countries having enough franchise contracts throughout the year, their availability will also be in question for any new T20 league in a new country/territory.
