The issue of foreign players, in part for participation Indian Premier League (IPL) Abu Dhabi’s 2026 auction has stirred controversy once again. Despite the league’s global standing, several foreign stars have registered with limited availability, prioritizing non-national commitments in the full tournament. This trend has drawn sharper criticism than before India captain Sunil Gavaskar. Gavaskar issued a strongly worded directive for teams not to waste a second bid on non-leaguers as a whole.
Sunil Gavaskar warns overseas players with stern message ahead of IPL 2026 auction
Gavaskar called out foreign players who only offered themselves for a limited time, arguing that the practice showed a fundamental disrespect for the world’s premier T20 competition. Gavaskar, writing in his daytime column, said that individuals who prioritize non-national duties in the IPL should not be allowed in the IPL, even in the auction pool. He did not create any words to convey his miserly message:
“There are some players who have made themselves available for a limited period. Obviously, if a player has not shown respect for the IPL and is not available for the full tournament, he should not even be in the auction.”
Gavaskar emphasized that any commitment other than playing for one country was not sufficient justification for missing parts of the season:
“If something else of national duty is more important to him, then not one second of the auction should be wasted on him.
Gavaskar’s comments reflect growing frustration within the Indian cricket community over the perceived casual approach of some foreign players towards lucrative IPL contracts.
IPl franchises facing problems ahead of 2026 mini auction
Gavaskar’s comments were directly influenced by the situation surrounding the Australian WicketKeeper-cadaver Josh EnglishDespite confirming its availability, registrations for the 2026 auction will be limited with a base price of Rs 2 Crore. Released by Inglis kings of punjab (pbks) Decision head coach after the 2025 season Ricky ponting It was reported that the player had limited availability due to his wedding schedule.
Australia’s case highlights the complex logistics facing franchises with significant funding sources to players who may only be available for part of the matches. This issue is combined with the drawing of the historical midseason; Postponed IPL 2025, during the Australian Pacer Mitchell Starc and inclined Jake Fraser-McGurk Both exited due to security concerns related to India-Pakistan military operations. Besides, the foreign contingent is already affected by players like the retirement of the South African star FAF du Plessiswho chooses to play Pakistan Super League (PSL) instead of the IPL and the Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwellremoved his name completely from the IPL 2026 auction pool.
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