Make IPL part of FTP: Vettori

Daniel Vettori suggested to make the BCCI-backed Twenty20 venture a part of the ICC's Future Tours Program.

New Zealand skipper Daniel Vettori on Tuesday suggested the best way to avoid a club versus country situation was to make the BCCI-backed Twenty20 venture a part of the ICC’s Future Tours Program (FTP).

The 29-year-old leg-spinner, who is in Delhi Daredevils team of the Indian Premier League, said fears that players may take early retirements to participate in the league were unfounded but making IPL a part of the ICC calendar would just make it a bit easier for the cricketers.

“I don’t think anybody will retire to play in the IPL. But yes it is difficult when big offers come your way,” Vettori told reporters after a practice session at the Ferozeshah Kotla stadium here today.

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“I think everybody would like to see some space for the IPL in the FTP. It would just make it a bit easier for the players. I am sure something can be worked out,” he added.

The Kiwi skipper, who fetched USD 625,000 in the players’ auction in February, cited the rebel Indian Cricket League (ICL) as an example of how big money could influence players into giving up their national careers.

New Zealand, along with Pakistan, was the most affected by players’ exodus after the ICL was launched. The Kiwis lost their pace spearhead Shane Bond, among others, to the rebel Twenty20 series.