The IPL is very important because everybody has to gain from this: Mohammad Azharuddin

Mohammad Azharuddin had an impressive career of 433 international matches scoring over 15,593 runs. The former Indian captain has always been vocal about his stance on cricketing matters.

While talking at the event, “Salaam Cricket 2020” Azhar spoke about England and Wales Cricket Board taking a very big step in resuming International cricket. He also spoke about the importance of the IPL and wants the International Cricket Council to give its verdict on the fate of the T20 World Cup soon.

“England has taken a very big and a bold step, cricket will restart as a result of this. England and West Indies series will set the ball rolling. And I hope the IPL also happens because a lot of people are connected with it, Indian players and international as well. The boards also need to sit and decide on the T20 World Cup as soon as possible," Azharuddin said.

The 57-year-old believes that everyone has something to gain from the IPL, whether domestic or international players and makes the cash-rich tournament a very important event.

“According to me the first tournament which was scheduled that is important. T20 World Cup is already in the itinerary. But all this can only happen after the vaccine comes. The IPL is very important because everybody has to gain from this,” Azharuddin added.

Azhar also took a shot at the ‘money-grab for the Indian board’ comments made on the IPL.

"Some former Aussie seamers said IPL is a money-grab for the Indian board. But it is actually true for everybody, even the overseas players. People should not say such things because it is an important tournament and the board should look to hold it," Azharuddin said.

The former captain feels that the series of England and Windies is going to be a trial as no one knows how it's going to work.

"Cricket has to restart but following so many guidelines won't be easy. Till the time the ENG-WI matches don't happen, we won't get to know what is right and what is wrong. It all depends on the players, they are taking a big risk. Cricket is a contact sport because there is only one ball which travels from player-to-player and in the stands as well the fans touch it.”

Health and safety of everyone involved should always be the priority.

 "Therefore, I think the boards need to sit and discuss about this as soon as possible. Cricket needs to restart but only after taking all precautions. Every person needs to be safe because health comes first," he said.