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Page last updated at 19:45 GMT, Friday, 25 April 2008 20:45 UK

PCA survey underlines lure of IPL

Indian threat to English cricket

A third of England players say they would consider quitting the national team early to play in the Indian Premier League, a new survey claims.

The research was carried out by the Professional Cricketers' Association, with 320 of its members taking part.

The survey also found that nearly 20% of PCA members would risk a 12-month ban from county cricket to play in the unsanctioned Indian Cricket League.

The IPL and ICL Twenty20 competitions both offer lucrative salaries.

The PCA make it clear that all members of the existing England squad replied to their questionnaire.

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The survey also claims that 100% of players hope a window can be found in the International Cricket Council's Future Tours Programme to accommodate the Indian leagues.

According to England one-day international captain Paul Collingwood, the route to IPL stardom will continue to come through selection for the national team first.

"We've all said how attractive the IPL is, but it's clear the pathways are through England representation," Collingwood said.

"We must try to create an even better T20 competition than we have now in our summer - but importantly not forget the cricket that goes around it both domestically and internationally."


see also
England close to Twenty20 revamp
25 Apr 08 |  England
Cumbes favours new Twenty20 plan
25 Apr 08 |  Lancashire
English game may follow IPL lead
23 Apr 08 |  England
Sidebottom backs big-money game
22 Apr 08 |  England
England bosses soften IPL stance
16 Apr 08 |  Cricket
ECB chief rejects Pietersen plea
07 Apr 08 |  England


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