Graeme Smith, Commissioner of Cricket South Africa’s upcoming T20 league – SA20 – has stated unequivocally that he has no power to bring Indian players into the league.India has some of the world’s most talented and vibrant cricketers. Obviously, everyone wants the Indian talent to play. Our fans would love it, he said on the sidelines of Mumbai’s Viacom 18 Sports event. However, it is the BCCI’s prerogative. It is up to their players to make those decisions. If that changes, we will hopefully have the opportunity to bring some exceptional talent to South Africa. It is what it is for the time being.Smith did, however, suggest that exposure to different conditions could benefit Indian players. Exposed to conditions… Before coming to India, I had never seen the ball spin and bounce. I’d never seen a short leg and a silly point before. I was used to seeing fielders behind me and bowlers hitting 140u2013150 kph. So there is definitely exposure, he said. However, it is becoming more common. India sends out two excellent teams at the same time.It’s also clear that the league will not see Pakistani players, with none of the six IPL franchises interested. From a league standpoint, we want the best cricketers in the world to play. However, we don’t get involved in selection or how franchises want to build their teams, Smith explained.Along with SA20, another T20 league in the UAE, ILT20, will be added to the already crowded cricket calendar in January. I don’t think it’s just about the leagues. Every year, the ICC hosts an event. Finding time for bilateral cricket is becoming increasingly difficult, Smith said.In IPL 2023, tactical substitutions will be permitted.The BCCI has told franchises that they will be able to make tactical substitutions in the IPL in 2023. The final regulations for the relocation are still pending. After attempting it in the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20, the BCCI received positive feedback. During the domestic tournament, teams could use an impact player to replace any member of the starting eleven before the 14th over of either inning.
