Australian captain Pat Cummins and explosive batsman Travis Head were offered substantial contracts by major Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises.
SPORTS NEWS: Two prominent Australian cricketers, captain Pat Cummins and explosive batsman Travis Head, have reportedly turned down significant offers from the Indian Premier League (IPL). According to reports, both players were offered multi-year contracts worth AUD 1 million (approximately INR 58.46 crore) each, with the intention for them to focus solely on T20 franchise cricket.
However, Cummins and Head politely declined these offers, reiterating their commitment to the national team. This move is being considered an example in the cricketing world, as most players currently accept lucrative offers from franchise leagues.
Offers and National Commitment
The report stated that this offer was approximately six times the annual income players receive under Cricket Australia's central contract. Currently, senior Australian players earn roughly AUD 1.5 million (INR 8.77 crore) annually. Pat Cummins, who plays with a captain's allowance, has an annual income of up to approximately AUD 3 million (INR 17.54 crore).
Nevertheless, both players prioritized their commitment to the national team, turning down the attractive proposals from IPL investors. This decision made it clear that some players still place national service above personal financial gain.
Statements from Head and Cummins
This move comes at a time when discussions are ongoing between Cricket Australia, state associations, and the players' union regarding the privatization of the Big Bash League (BBL). The financial power of the IPL and other global T20 leagues is rapidly increasing, posing a challenge to traditional cricket boards. Cummins and Head's decision indicates that national cricket remains a priority for many players, even when substantial sums are offered in franchise cricket.
Travis Head, who played in both the IPL and Major League Cricket (MLC) last year, stated that franchise tournaments gave him a taste of life outside international cricket. Nevertheless, he clarified that his full focus remains on playing for Australia.
Head said, "Currently, I'm playing for Australia, and I don't see any time when I could play anything else... I want to remain as committed as possible to Australia." Pat Cummins also stated that his national duty and team goals are far more important than the earnings from franchise cricket.
