The International Cricket Council (ICC) is in discussions with several cricket boards that have yet to distribute prize money from this year’s Twenty20 World Cup to players, according to Reuters. India defeated South Africa in the final to claim the title at the tournament, which was co-hosted by the United States and West Indies in June.
The World Cricketers’ Association (WCA) issued a statement on Wednesday, highlighting cases where non-payment of prize money was accompanied by “threatening and intimidatory behaviour” by some national governing bodies towards player groups. A source revealed that the ICC is addressing the matter with five of the 20 participating boards to ensure timely payments to players.
WCA CEO Tom Moffat expressed concern over the situation, noting, “We are extremely concerned… with a number of threats made against players who stand up for themselves and their colleagues in some cricket environments.”
Moffat also acknowledged the ICC’s efforts, saying, “We appreciate the ICC’s efforts to date in ensuring the players involved are paid in full and are certain the ICC will continue to take all appropriate steps against any Boards who do not do so and to enforce their terms of participation.”
He added that all players should receive their entitled benefits and be provided with a secure environment to advocate for themselves, including through players’ associations if they choose.
The WCA’s statement came after its annual general meeting in Singapore this week, where they launched a Global Player Hardship Fund. This fund aims to support international players in need who are not covered by existing domestic support frameworks.
JP Van Wyk, the WCA’s head of welfare and education, stated, “We are certain it is going to assist those current and recently retired international cricketers who are presently unsupported and vulnerable.”
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Name of Author: Cricexec Staff
