Outgoing ICC Chair Criticizes Cricket's Self-Interest and Congested Calendar

Greg Barclay warns of financial and structural challenges for international cricket as franchise leagues grow and smaller nations face sustainability concerns.

• Greg Barclay, the outgoing ICC chair, has criticized the global cricket calendar as overly congested and driven by self-interest, making reform nearly impossible.
• Barclay highlighted the growing conflict between international cricket and lucrative domestic T20 leagues, which often force players to choose between national teams and higher-paying contracts.
• He expressed concern over the financial sustainability of smaller cricketing nations like West Indies, suggesting they may need to reconsider their structure to remain viable in Test cricket.
• Cricket Australia Chair Mike Baird defended the organization's stance on Afghanistan, emphasizing support for Afghan women cricketers who fled the Taliban's ban on women in sports.
• Jay Shah, the new ICC chair, faces immediate challenges, including resolving disputes between India and Pakistan over hosting arrangements for upcoming ICC tournaments.

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