Hafeez slammed Buttler’s IPL comments, citing the importance of national pride.
Former Pakistan all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez has lashed out at England captain Jos Buttler’s recent comments suggesting that no international cricket should be scheduled during the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Buttler, who had to leave IPL 2024 before the playoffs to lead England in a T20I series against Pakistan, shared his views during a press conference ahead of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024.
"It's my personal opinion that there shouldn't be any international cricket that clashes with the IPL. These games have been in the calendar for a long time, and leading into a World Cup, your No. 1 priority is playing for England and performing for England. I feel like this is the best preparation," Buttler opined.
His remarks became a topic of debate on the Club Prairie Fire podcast, where Hafeez asked Michael Vaughan and Adam Gilchrist for their views
Vaughan endorsed Buttler's stance on this matter, acknowledging the growing significance of the IPL.
"I actually agree with him. IPL has become so big, and the players are so well rewarded for participating," Vaughan stated, before Hafeez interrupted and asked the former England captain whether it was fair for players to prioritize IPL over national duties.
In reply, Vaughan said, "It is the nature of the beast in 2024. Whether it is absolutely morally right is a very good question. But I think IPL is so big now that it is very hard for international boards to compete with it."
Vaughan also highlighted IPL’s potential impact on the County Championship. "Pakistan Super League (PSL) will compete with IPL next year, which will be interesting. It will affect the English summer more than any other country because so many players will be involved in both tournaments," he added.
Gilchrist echoed Vaughan's sentiments, mentioning that domestic cricket will certainly be compromised due to IPL.
“Domestic cricket is going to be compromised within the more established cricketing nations. For instance, the Sheffield Shield final overlaps with the IPL, so players will have to make a choice,” Gilchrist said.
However, Hafeez had a completely different viewpoint as he emphasized the importance of national pride.
"To me, that was a shocking statement from the captain of England because representing your country is the biggest prize you play for. If you are compromising and saying that national pride should not be there due to the IPL contract, I think that's not right," Hafeez said.