Babar Azam’s cricketing prowess has shone brilliantly across many teams globally, confirming his reputation as one of the most remarkable batsmen in current cricket. There’s a buzz in the air saying that Pakistan’s inspiring leader, Babar Azam, might not be available for the forthcoming ILT20 next year.
Babar Azam’s amazing success across numerous teams globally has certainly confirmed his place as one of the most remarkable modern-day cricket batsmen. This naturally inspires enormous excitement among supporters, who eagerly await updates on his impending participation in T20 tournaments. The recent decision by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to let its players compete in the second season of the International League T20 (ILT20) has sparked considerable anticipation over which team the 28-year-old star will represent.
Enthusiastic cricket followers in the UAE must have been anxiously expecting the chance to witness their Pakistani captain in action throughout the superb venues of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah. However, new sources imply that Babar would opt out of the forthcoming ILT20 season, planned for January-February 2024. It appears that the outstanding right-handed batter has turned down the enticing contract of half a million USD for ILT20. This decision seems to have been influenced by concerns concerning payment terms and conflicts connected to image rights.
The circumstance illustrates the delicate conversations and considerations that go into such decisions, even for recognized players like Babar Azam.
According to insiders in Pakistani cricket circles, there’s a buzz that the ILT20 organizers are considering the idea of having Babar Azam not just as a player, but also as a brand ambassador for the league. However, instead of participating in the ILT20, Babar is gearing up to showcase his skills in the Bangladesh Premier League, scheduled to kick off on January 10, 2024.
Shaheen Shah Afridi set to be the highest-earning cricketer in ILT20
The Desert Vipers have made an intriguing move by bringing Shaheen Shah Afridi on board with a three-year deal, backed with an amazing sum of $400,000 along with additional payments for image rights. This has made the outstanding left-arm seamer the highest-paid cricketer within the league’s six franchises. What adds a fascinating twist to his deal is a particular clause: if any other team manages to recruit a player for a larger amount than what the Pakistani fast bowler is making before the third season begins, Shaheen’s own wages will automatically go up.
Looking ahead, the second season of ILT20 is planned to take place from January 19 to February 18 next year. The organizers are striving to surpass the success of the debut season and make the upcoming one even more thrilling and extraordinary.