Taking inspiration from the Indian Premier League (IPL), Saudi Arabia are looking to host the most expensive Twenty20 cricket tournament in the world, as per The Sydney Morning Herald. The planning is reportedly still in its early stages and the league can only begin once it gets the green light from the International Cricket Council (ICC).
Saudi Arabia have reportedly been in touch with administrators, players, and coaches from many countries for at least a year, however, most of these discussions have been private.
With the establishment of this cricket league, Saudi Arabia look to attract more eyes to their country through sport, as well as accomplish their goal of being the top tourist destination for Indians.
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Saudi Arabia plans to create the world's richest cricket league with help from BCCI and IPL owners, and Indian and Pakistani players may participate. The ICC is aware of the developments.
— Himanshu Pareek (@Sports_Himanshu) April 13, 2023
(Via: The Sydney Morning Herald)
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Will IPL owners be part of the Saudi league?
As per the report, Saudi Arabia will take the help of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and IPL owners to organise their cricket league. The nation already has an established relationship with Indian cricket administrators, with Saudi Tourism Authority being the official sponsor for the IPL this year.
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Will Indian and Pakistani players be a part of the Saudi league?
Early indications are that if the league comes to fruition, there is a strong chance both Indian and Pakistani players feature in the new Saudi league in its first edition. This will be a first for Indian players, as currently, the BCCI has barred them from playing in any foreign Twenty20 competitions.
