Modi rules out increase in foreign players in IPL

BANGALORE, Oct 8(UNI): Indian Premier League (IPL) Chairman Lalit Modi today ruled out the possibility of increasing the number of foreign players playing in the IPL.

Talking to newsmen here, he said"there are breaking news beamed about the possibility of IPL increasing the number of foreign players, but I want to clarify here that there is no such proposal.

"At present, only four foreign players are allowed to play in each team and this number will not be increased at any cost," he further clarified.

About cash-rich Champions League T20 beginning today, Modi said the format was aimed at popularising Cricket.

It was also aimed at popularising the game at club level on the lines of football.

"Hitherto the players, after reaching international level, were reluctant to play for their club, but in the Champions League T20, the main condition is the player should play for his club, otherwise he is not qualified." Replying to a question, he said that since Government of India has not lifted the ban, Pakistan is not playing in the inaugural Champions League T20, but I am confident next year that country club team will also participate.

Defending introduction of Champions League T20, Modi said"it was aimed at bringing back younger players to cricket instead of going to football in non-cricket playing countries.

He said the governing body would take a decision about increasing the number of teams playing in the Champions League from the present 12.

"This is the first League which was launched jointly by BCCI, South Africa, Australia, IPL and State Associations and I am confident of its success since foreign players would get opportunity to play in other conditions and there is plenty of opportunity for the youngsters to nurture their cricket carrier." he added.

Modi said"IPL was a surprise success, similarly Champions League T20 will also be a success since there are international players and gives ample opportunity to boost domestic cricket."