IPL 2025: Pakistan legend calls for boycott on IPL, urges other boards to take stance

Former Pakistan captain Inzamam-ul-Haq has voiced his frustration with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), calling for a global boycott of the Indian Premier League (IPL).

His remarks come amid the ongoing controversy surrounding the Champions Trophy, where India has been scheduled to play all its matches in Dubai due to the Indian government's refusal to allow the team to travel to Pakistan.

The issue gained traction after England cricket legends Nasser Hussain and Mike Atherton raised concerns about India receiving a significant advantage by playing all their games at a single venue. Now, Inzamam has urged other cricket boards to take a stand against BCCI, highlighting the disparity in how Indian players are restricted from participating in overseas leagues while foreign cricketers actively take part in the IPL.

"Keep aside the Champions Trophy. Top players participate in IPL but Indian players don't participate in other leagues. Other boards should stop sending their players to IPL. If you (BCCI) don't release your players for leagues, then other boards should take a stance," Inzamam stated on a Pakistani TV channel.

Despite Inzamam's pledge, it will be financial disaster for other boards to oppose their players from playing in IPL. The franchise tournament is by far the richest cricket league in the world and the exposure, money the foreigners get in the IPL is head and shoulders above other leagues.

Why India players don't participate other T20 Leagues?

Under BCCI's regulations, Indian players are contractually barred from competing in foreign leagues unless they retire from Indian cricket, including the IPL and domestic competitions.

IPL 2025 starts from March 22

The 18th edition of the IPL starts from March 22 and will continue till May 25. Defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders will be up against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the Eden Gardens in the opening match. The playoffs will be played in Hyderabad and Kolkata.