Srinagar, November 2(KNB): The ongoing Indian Heaven Premier League (IHPL) T20 in Srinagar has plunged into controversy after several players — including both local and outside cricketers — refused to play over non-payment of their contractual dues.
According to sources, players have been waiting for payments promised by the league organizers, but no money has been transferred so far. The crisis came to a standstill when two matches scheduled for November 1 at Bakshi Stadium were cancelled after players refused to take the field. On November 2, one of the two scheduled fixtures was also called off for the same reason.
Adding to the uncertainty, former India cricketer Surinder Khanna, a member of the IHPL’s managing body, is reportedly not in Srinagar. Insiders say Khanna may have anticipated the financial trouble early on.
Most of the international players have already left Srinagar, while only local J&K cricketers and former India pacer Praveen Kumar remain lodged at the Radisson Collection Hotel. Players are said to be spending time in the hotel lobby as the situation remains unresolved.
Sources also reveal that team owners and sponsors have not cleared payments to the organizers, causing a major cash crunch. One of the managing officials has reportedly rushed to Delhi to arrange funds, while the league’s remaining matches hang in limbo. Organizers are now considering skipping the league stage entirely and moving straight to the quarterfinals.
Earlier, former J&K Ranji cricketer Adil Reshi had warned of irregularities in the league, alleging non-payment and poor treatment of players. While the organizers dismissed his claims at the time, the current developments appear to have vindicated those concerns.
The controversy raises serious questions about transparency, financial accountability, and player safety in privately-run leagues. With the IHPL not sanctioned by either the BCCI or the Jammu & Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA), it remains unclear who will ensure that players receive their due payments.
The Indian Heaven Premier League (IHPL) T20 was promoted as a private Twenty20 cricket tournament aimed at boosting sports tourism and local talent in Jammu and Kashmir. The event, however, has faced repeated scrutiny over its lack of regulatory clearance, opaque management, and financial sustainability.
Several unofficial leagues have sprung up across India in recent years, often promising players lucrative contracts but facing credibility and payment issues due to poor financial planning or lack of sanction from cricket boards.(KNB)