Hants chief defends IPL charges

Hampshire's parent company Rose Bowl plc's managing director Glenn Delve is disappointed by some players' attitudes over Indian Premier League fees.

England's players are said to be upset at having to pay 10% of their auction fee to their respective counties.

Delve told BBC Radio Solent: "I can't think that any of this has come as a surprise, they've had to agree it."

Batsman Kevin Pietersen could end up paying as much as £45,000 to Hampshire in compensation after Friday's auction.

Pietersen joined Hampshire in October 2004, but his England commitments mean he has played just one County Championship game, eight one-day matches and one Twenty20 Cup tie for the county in the last three seasons.

Delve added: "They've [the players] got an opportunity to take part in a fiesta of cricket that not only is a great opportunity for them to test their skills against the world's best, but also to get paid quite handsomely.

If 10% is an unreasonable kick-back then I would be surprised. I think it sounds utterly reasonable

Rose Bowl plc managing director Glenn Delve

"I think that to have a view that 10% of that payment is unreasonable probably forgets much of the development that goes into those players.

"Those players don't suddenly become world-class players that the IPL want. Those players have been developed and nurtured.

"They've trained with their counties and county colleagues and get to a point where they become attractive.

"If 10% is an unreasonable kick-back then I would be surprised. I think it sounds utterly reasonable.

"Let's hope they are not going just for the money. Let's hope they are going because they want to play against some of the world's best in one of the most exciting tournaments that's come along in years."