Razzaq disappointed over Pak players’ omission from IPL 4 auction

ISLAMABAD - Pakistan all-rounder Abdul Razzaq has expressed his disappointment over the exclusion of Pakistani cricketers from the auction list for the fourth edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL).

It is noteworthy that no Pakistani player was included in the last edition of IPL as well. Pakistani cricketers had taken part in the inaugural IPL in 2008, but were forced out of the 2009 edition due to security concerns in the wake of the Mumbai terror attacks, and were then ignored for the 2010 tournament.

Razzaq is yet to make an appearance in the tournament, as he was associated with the unofficial Indian Cricket League (ICL) in 2008 when the inaugural IPL took place.

“It is disappointing because obviously one would like to be part of such a major event. The tournament is a great platform to compete and play alongside the world’s top players. But I don’t have any regret since it is something that is not in my hands,” the Daily Times quoted Razzaq, as saying.

Earlier, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had made it clear that it wanted Pakistani players to take part in this year’s IPL, but got no response from their Indian counterparts on the issue.

Razzaq blamed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) - the promoter of the league- and the IPL teams for Pakistani players having been snubbed from the event.

“I know, if it had been possible, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) would have sent our names for the auction but they can’t do anything unless they get a response from the Indians,” the 31-year-old right-hander noted.

Razzaq, who has represented Pakistan in 46 Tests, 248 ODIs and 26 T20 internationals, said that the game of cricket and the IPL was turning out to be the loser in the tensions between the two countries.

“It is unfortunate for cricket. It is strange to see all the top players of the world in action in the IPL this year except for Pakistan players, who are renowned for their prowess in T20 format,” he said, adding, “… I just feel it is IPL’s loss.”

“I know for a fact that Pakistan players have a big fan following in India, and I have seen it while playing in the ICL or touring with the national team,” said Razzaq.

“As far as Pakistan players are concerned, whenever the Indians allow us and invite us to play in the IPL, I don’t see any issues for us in playing there,” he added. (ANI)