Lalit Modi recently unveiled a proposal to the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), aiming to revolutionize The Hundred tournament with a model reminiscent of the IPL’s success.
The proposal outlines a restructuring of The Hundred into a T20 format, with the potential to significantly augment the ECB’s revenue streams.
Key aspects of Modi’s proposal include a substantial USD 100 million purse allocated for players over a decade and a guaranteed USD 1 billion revenue injection into the ECB’s coffers.
Modi envisions a 10-team league with limited involvement from IPL teams, stressing the importance of establishing an English-centric competition.
“I have suggested only two IPL teams; it has to be an English league and not India dominated,” Modi conveyed to Cricpulse while keeping the specifics of his plan under wraps.
Modi’s proposal aligns with the ECB’s contemplation of incorporating private investors into its framework.
However, due to Modi’s lifetime ban by the BCCI, the ECB may seek consultation with the Indian board before proceeding with his proposal, primarily for the sake of diplomatic relations.
While the ECB has yet to respond to Modi’s initiative, IPL franchises are showing interest in investing in the English league.
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) is the latest contender to engage in discussions with ECB officials, following their successful foray into the South African league with Sunrisers Eastern Cape.
Similarly, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have expressed openness to investment opportunities in English cricket, pending concrete offers.
Nonetheless, it remains unclear whether IPL teams’ interest will intersect with Modi’s proposed league or The Hundred, as indications suggest they may be distinct entities.
In response to queries regarding IPL teams’ overseas investments, BCCI secretary Jay Shah declined to comment, citing the matter as internal to the board and the IPL.
Previously, the BCCI discouraged IPL franchises from investing in foreign leagues, indicating a shift in their stance.
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