Haroon Lorgat explains that T20 league built to prevent Kolpak deals

With a plethora of international players from South Africa signing Kolpak deals, Cricket South Africa chief Haroon Lorgat has stated that the T20 League in South Africa is to keep players from signing Kolpak deals with different county clubs in the near future. Speaking in a media interaction, Lorgat went ahead and said that the conceptualization of the T20 league was indeed to prevent the Kolpak deals.

“Yes, I must say that when we conceptualised a franchise-based T20 league the KOLPAK was a major consideration. Obviously, you want to give the opportunity to the South African players to grow and also make a career out of cricket. Earlier, the only way to have a good career was to play for the South African national team but this league with 8 teams will have 88 slots for Proteas players,” Lorgat said during an interaction.

Lorgat also went ahead and added that Shashank Manohar, the ICC Chairman was also supportive of the idea. “Mr. Manohar was very supportive of the idea and obviously, he knew the considerations kept in mind while announcing a franchise-based league. The members gave a favorable response when the concept was presented to them. Everyone understands that the game needs to grow and we have to find new avenues to do that,” said Lorgat, a former ICC Chief Executive.

“South Africa being a great country to tour and the time zone being convenient for the Indian sub-continent, we would love to have Indian investors on board. The global tenders are out and considering the ties that both India and South Africa share, it would be a great experience,” said Lorgat.

While he was also looking for the involvement of Indian players, Lorgat added that it was difficult for the Indians but would be nice to have them for the league as well. “International cricket is sacrosanct and there would be no compromise. But it would be incredible for the league if we get a player like Virat Kohli on board. But I know how tough it is for top Indian players to take time out of their hectic schedule. But we would like to get the second rung of Indian players. I have not had a chance to discuss with BCCI’s current dispensation and that’s why I would not like to presume anything,” he said.

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