Private cricket league runs into rough waters

The Indian Heaven Premier League – a private cricket tournament being played in Srinagar — ran into rough waters after the cricketers, some of them international players, and umpires accused the organisers of unpaid dues.

Surprisingly, the hotel where the players were staying was also allegedly not paid the room rent, putting pressure on the players. The league was organised at Bakshi Stadium in Srinagar and was drawing large crowds of locals and cricket enthusiasts.

As per the information available, a total of eight teams participated in the league including former West Indies star Chris Gayle. The league was running at the stadium since October 25.

The league was inaugurated by the Minister for Sports Satish Sharma. The league has now been suspended over reported mismanagement.

Melissa Juniper, who is an umpire from England, while talking to media said that the organisers have not paid anything to anyone. “League management is not answering anyone’s calls and they are not seen anywhere. Hotels have also not been paid. The management managed to flee late last night without informing anyone, leaving the players behind.”