Global T20 League bumps up International players count in squads

Preparations for the inaugural Global T20 League are in full swing as cricket lovers are updated with a new development every day. Today, Cricket South Africa (CSA) announced that five international players will be allowed in the squads of each of the teams.

The five include Kolpak players, as the total has been increased from the previously stipulated maximum of four international players in each squad. Consequently, the squad size will be increased from 17 to 18 to ensure that domestic players aren’t prejudiced as a result of the increase.

Ahead of the players draft, set to take place on 26 and 27 August in Cape Town, the raise in the number will help the franchises manage the workload of the international players and any possible injuries over the six-week tournament period. The current on-field regulations require that a minimum of three international players be selected and a maximum of four be on the field of play at any one time.

The increase to five per squad will not change the maximum of four international players allowed to play at any time. The South African Cricketer’s Association (SACA) and all franchise owners have expressed support for the addition in the squad of players. The player draft is scheduled for 26 and 27 August, with almost 400 players from 10 countries confirming their interest, as reported by SA Cricket MAG.

What to expect from the league?

The tournament is set to begin in November, this year. Teams participating in the League will be based out of eight cities across South Africa. There are 16 marquee players that have thus far been unveiled by CSA – eight current South Africa internationals and eight of the best foreign players in the world game. The Proteas marquee players had been named in April. However, the franchises they will represent only became known at the franchise owner announcement on 19 June 2017.

The T20 Global League 2017 has been creating the hype all over the world because of the increasing popularity of the shortest format and the interest in leagues like the IPL, BBL and PSL. With time, it has garnered so much interest that the CSA claims that there have been 150 owners showing interest. This includes owners from the IPL as well.