The Indian Cricket League continued alienation from international cricket has had ripple effects in most cricket playing nations. Among the nations most affected by the continuing standoff between the ICL and the ICC is Pakistan, who has a number of players in the rebel league; which players have consequently been barred from playing cricket on behalf of the country.

Inzamam, who is also captain of ICL team Lahore Badshahs, has criticised the behaviour of the PCB saying they have succumbed to pressure from the ICC and that the PCB should have shown more respect for the Pak players. This is not the first time the Pak players have had a run in with the PCB with regard to the ICL, they have sued the PCB and the High Court has thereafter cleared all Pak players so that there is no legal hurdle to the players participating in domestic cricket or international cricket.

Inzamam rues the fact that the absence of the ICL players from the national side is weakening the team. "Why is Pakistan taking pressure from the ICC and the BCCI? If they include ICL players then our team will become very strong and will perform better.” Inzamam also mentioned the fact that the Pak team and Indian teams were of similar caliber after the last world cup but whereas the Indian team have made strong strides forward, the same in not true for the Pak side.

Inzamam also accused ICC of fearing for their sponsorships. "I see only one reason for the ICC's opposition to the ICL and that is they have to share finances as private leagues also take away sponsorships, which is a danger for them. Why are we keeping ICL players away from international cricket? It's unjust and I hope the PCB reviews its decision. We must fight for the cause beneficial for us," said Inzamam.

It was reported in the cricket news that the ICC said it would discuss the ICL issue at its executive board meeting in Dubai on April 17 and 18, however there aren’t too many holding their breath that any resolution will be reached. There have been many attempts to work out a compromise which have failed due to the unshakable stance of the BCCI towards the ICL and consequently the ICC being unwilling to take on the BCCI in this matter.

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3.25 Copyright (C) 2007 Alain Georgette / Copyright (C) 2006 Frantisek Hliva. All rights reserved."

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