Former Pakistan captain Inzamam-ul-Haq has launched a scathing attack on 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 Champions Trophy 2025 controversy, where India refused to travel to Pakistan due to security concerns and instead opted to play their matches in Dubai.
Table of content
Inzamam Urges Foreign Boards to Unite Against IPL
Expressing his frustration on a Pakistan TV channel, Inzamam questioned the dominance of the IPL in world cricket, reminding other cricketing boards that while foreign players participate in the IPL, Indian players do not play in overseas leagues.
“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,” Inzamam said.
The BCCI has a strict policy that prevents Indian cricketers from competing in foreign leagues, unless they officially retire from both international and domestic cricket, including the IPL.
Champions Trophy Semifinals Amidst Uncertainty
Meanwhile, the Champions Trophy semifinals are set to take place, with Dubai hosting the first semifinal on Tuesday, while Lahore will host the second on Wednesday. However, uncertainty looms over whether both matches will proceed as scheduled.
- Australia has already left for Dubai, while South Africa traveled late on Saturday night ahead of their semifinal clash.
- India’s semifinal opponent—either Australia or South Africa—will be confirmed after the last Group A game between New Zealand and Australia in Dubai.
- Reports indicate that some Afghanistan players also traveled to Dubai, hoping for a semi-final spot, but their chances were crushed after England’s loss to South Africa.
Inzamam Furious Over India Playing in Dubai
Inzamam’s frustration stems from the special arrangements made for India, allowing them to play all their matches in Dubai, citing security risks in Pakistan. The decision has sparked a major debate, with several Pakistan cricket experts questioning the ICC’s stance.
As India, New Zealand, Australia, and South Africa gear up for the semi-finals, Inzamam’s strong anti-IPL remarks have added more controversy to the tournament. Whether other cricketing boards heed his call for a boycott remains to be seen.