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Former England captain Michael Vaughan extended his support to Jos Buttler after he remarked that the Indian Premier League (IPL) should be free of international matches. Vaughan said that the cash-rich league offers several financial benefits to the players while adding that the cricket boards aren’t powerful enough to compete with the IPL. Buttler, who had to leave the IPL 2024 before the playoffs to lead England in a T20I series against Pakistan said that international cricket shouldn’t clash with the IPL.
During a press conference ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, Buttler said, “It’s my personal opinion that there shouldn’t be any international cricket that clashes with the IPL. These games have been on the calendar for a long time, and leading into a World Cup, your number 1 priority is playing and performing for England. I feel like this is the best preparation.
Mohammad Hafeez criticises Buttler; Vaughan comes in support of England skipper
Buttler’s remarks didn’t sit well with former Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez and sparked a debate on the Club Prairie Fire podcast. Hafeez reckoned that international cricket and representing the nation should be given priority over league cricket. Hafeez added that in such scenarios, all T20 leagues including the PSL should be given equal importance rather than any special treatment to IPL.
However, Vaughan came in support of England’s white-ball captain and acknowledged the growth and significance of the IPL. Vaughan remarked, “I actually agree with him. IPL has become so big, and the players are very well rewarded for participating.” He added, “PSL will compete with IPL next year, which will be interesting. It will affect the English summer more than any other country because so many players are involved in these tournaments.”
