Franchise Cricket Allured One More Player, Pooran Quits International Cricket

Cricketers are increasingly prioritizing franchise cricket over international cricket due to a combination of financial, professional, and lifestyle factors. Over the last couple of years, more and more cricketers have quit international cricket to put their entire focus on franchise cricket. Some of these players decided to hang up their boots in their prime. Nicholas Pooran, who has also led the West Indies on the international stage, is the freshest example. At the age of 29, Pooran decided to quit international cricket entirely.

Franchise leagues, especially the Indian Premier League (IPL) and other T20 leagues offer substantial salaries, often exceeding earnings from international cricket, particularly for players from smaller or less-funded boards. For instance, top IPL contracts can reach multi-million-dollar sums, dwarfing central contracts from many national boards. A 2022 FICA report found that 49% of surveyed international cricketers would consider rejecting central contracts if offered higher pay in T20 leagues.

Moreover, Franchise cricket involves shorter commitments (a few weeks compared to months-long international tours), allowing players to participate in multiple leagues globally, maximizing income. This flexibility contrasts with the demanding international calendar, which can lead to scheduling conflicts and player fatigue.

Franchise leagues attract international stars, providing a platform for players to showcase skills, learn from the best, and gain fame. This is particularly appealing to younger or lesser-known players who get limited international exposure, especially from associate nations or struggling boards like West Indies players like Chris Gayle and Andre Russell have thrived in this model.

For some, especially T20 specialists, international cricket, particularly Test and ODI formats, holds less allure due to lower pay (outside top nations like India, England), and the focus on shorter, fan-friendly T20 formats in leagues. Players like Nicholas Pooran and Heinrich Klaasen have recently retired from international cricket to focus on franchise leagues, citing better financial security.

Smaller cricket boards, such as those in West Indies or New Zealand, often lack the funds or structure to retain players, pushing them toward franchise cricket. Some boards' rigid policies, like requiring players to choose between national duty and leagues, drive players away. For example, Trent Boult opted out of New Zealand's Test team to focus on T20 leagues due to such constraints.

While franchise cricket boosts innovation, fan engagement, and player earnings, it raises concerns about the dilution of national pride and the health of international formats, particularly Tests and ODIs. The trend reflects a shift toward a market-driven cricket ecosystem, where players act as free agents, prioritizing personal and financial goals.