Is IPL spoiling international cricket?

Sometime back, former Sri Lanka captain Arjuna Ranatunga said the Indian Board's financial strength has influenced the International Cricket Council (ICC), which is constantly under the pressure of Board of Control for Cricket in India ( BCCI).

He said the Indian Board's full support for the Indian Premier League (IPL) is a clear indication of spoiling cricket. Ranatunga called the IPL a "monster" that will destroy international cricket. "Money is important, yes, but it shouldn't eventually kill cricket," he said.

Ranatunga, who led Sri Lanka to the 1996 World Cup triumph, said the ICC has become a body which is constantly under the BCCI's pressure.

"The ICC's job is to protect the game. They don't have to favour anyone. He said the West Windies faced a lot of hardship in fielding the Test sides because of withdrawals for IPL. "Have you ever heard that players like Chris Gayle, spin whiz Sunil Narine and all-rounder Dwayne Bravo refused to take part in Test series due to IPL duty? It's ridiculous."

Contrary to his view, the others feel the IPL has boosted the perception and image of cricket among the masses. In spite of all the
controversies and allegations, the IPL has given a new life to many cricketers in india whom we never heard of. It is a big platform for youngsters to showcase their talent.

IPL has thus proved to be a financial windfall for several strugglers - players good enough for competitive cricket but unable to break
through the first-class and Test cricket barriers.

In short, the IPL makes money, the franchise-owners make money, the players make money, and the sponsors and advertisers get millions of viewer eye-balls in return.