Afridi urges BCCI to include Pakistan players in IPL

As many as 11 Pakistan players were part of inaugural IPL in 2008

By CricketCountry Staff

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Karachi: Apr 8, 2011

Pakistan World Cup captain Shahid Afridi has urged the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to include Pakistan players in the cash-rich Indian Premier League.

It may be mentioned here that Pakistan players were part of the inaugural IPL but were kept out of the subsequent three editions, including the current one.

“It is high time that Pakistani cricketers should also get a place in IPL. For three seasons including the current one, we haven’t been a part of the IPL. We have no problems playing in India as we have just played a World Cup semi-final there. We are deeply hurt that they are treating us like ‘untouchables’,” Afridi was quoted as saying by PTI Bhasha.

Afridi feels that the IPL could be a big stage for youngsters to make their presence felt. “I am not saying that I want to play IPL but it could be a great platform for youngsters. They could make a mark for themselves.”

It is pertinent to point out that as many as 11 Pakistan players were part of the inaugural IPL in 2008. Afridi was the costliest Pakistani player who was bagged by the Hyderabad team for $675,000.

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