Tillakaratne Dilshan Dilshan rubbished suggestions that he is contemplating a change of franchise following the default committed by his owners on payment to the players © AFP
By CricketCountry Staff
Colombo: Aug 13, 2012
Sri Lanka and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) opener Tillakaratne Dilshan said he is not worried about the issue of Indian Premier League side failing to pay the first installment of their salaries for season-5 held in April-May.
"We got a little bit of money last week. We spoke to the management and I think they are going to sort this matter out as soon as possible."
"Some payment is still due but I am not worried about that. I know the owners are going to clear the dues and pay us within next month. I know they will pay us our money."
There were reports that none of the RCB players, save Chris Gayle, have received their first installments. Some members of the Royal Challengers 2012 squad, including captain Daniel Vettori, are still awaiting the first installment of their pay.
Dilshan also rubbished suggestions that he is contemplating a change of franchise following the default committed by his owners on payment to the players.
"Not really. There is no such move in my mind." The first edition of the SLPL kick started on August 10 and Dilshan said that one could not compare an established brand like IPL with the island nation's domestic league.
"I think we can't compare IPL with the SLPL. IPL is a big thing if you look at any other domestic T20 cricket in other country. I think after the Twenty20 World Cup, this is the biggest league which attracts quality international players.
"The SLPL is good for local players who could not play in IPL for some reasons. It will help them gain international experience. This is a good set-up for Sri Lankan cricket," he said.
He said the SLPL will help the Sri Lankan players get ready for the T20 World Cup in September-October.
"The SLPL will help them prepare for the World Cup. We are holding matches at Pallekele Stadium, Kandy and R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.
"These venues will be used for the World Cup. The league will help some of our players to come back to form before the start of the World Cup. This is like get ready and be 100 per cent fit for the event."
