The ICC is preparing to implement significant regulatory changes to manage the rapid growth of global T20 franchise leagues. These proposed rules aim to increase oversight and ensure the long-term sustainability of international cricket. Consequently, prominent competitions like the UAE’s ILT20 and Major League Cricket in the United States could face major operational shifts. The governing body will discuss these recommendations during its quarterly meetings in Bali this weekend. Furthermore, the new framework addresses player participation limits, anti-corruption measures, and commercial sponsorship standards across all sanctioned domestic leagues.
- The governing body proposes a strict limit of four overseas players in the starting eleven for all franchise leagues.
- New regulations would grant the council authority to audit or reject sanctions issued by full member boards.
- Leagues must utilize the ICC Anti-Corruption Unit or an approved integrity body to maintain their official sanctioned status.
- The review group suggests banning sponsorship deals with betting companies or surrogate brands to prevent illegal gambling risks.
ICC Oversight and Player Limits
The governing body intends to standardize player participation across the globe. Currently, the ILT20 permits nine overseas players, while MLC allows six in their lineups. However, the new proposal would cap this number at four for everyone. This change would force these leagues to rely more on local talent from the UAE and USA. Because many franchises have links to IPL owners, these shifts could alter their commercial appeal.
Additionally, the council wants to introduce sanctioning fees. These funds would support due diligence checks and corruption investigations. As a result, league organizers might face higher operational costs. The governing body could even withdraw existing sanctions if serious integrity concerns emerge. This move ensures that all private leagues operate under a unified and transparent regulatory structure.
Integrity and Future Oversight
The review group, led by Tamim Iqbal, highlighted several integrity concerns within the current system. Previously, full members had total authority over their domestic leagues. Now, the governing body seeks to intervene if a member fails to meet specific obligations. Also, the group flagged the rise of legends leagues involving retired players. They believe these events might overlap with active international schedules.
Therefore, protecting the international calendar remains a top priority for the board. Later this week, the Chief Executives’ Committee will review these proposals. If approved, the new rules will fundamentally reshape the landscape of professional T20 cricket. The group also suggested standardizing solidarity payments made to the home boards of participating overseas players. This would prevent future financial disputes between different national cricket boards.
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