MCL failed to honour player contracts, claims FICA

The inaugural Masters Champions League, popularly known as the MCL, was a big hit among the audiences but the tournament has now come under the scanner following the claims made by the Federation of International Cricketers Associations (FICA).

FICA has claimed that the MCL has not paid ‘a significant number of players’ as per their contracts with the tournament organizers. The claims by FICA suggest that only the players of Gemini Arabians, the winners of inaugural edition, are the only team that has been paid all the dues.

“As far as we are aware only one team, the Gemini Arabians, has been paid in full and on time.” FICA chief executive Tony Irish quoted. He further added that such dishonoring of contracts is utterly not acceptable by the association. “We understand it is a new event, however, the event finished more than three months ago, and the situation is entirely unacceptable,” he added.

Also read – Darren Sammy surprised over Pollard’s inclusion in Windies squad

The claims further said that if a franchise, like Gemini Arabians, can make all the payments then there is no reason why the organizers cannot do the same for the other franchises.

“If it is possible for the Gemini Arabians to do things the right way and to honour commitments to players, we don’t see why the organisers have not ensured the same has happened for all players. They have an obligation to do so,” quoted Tony Irish.

“The dishonoring of player contracts is an issue that the entire global game should address. This story is too common in cricket and there are players with outstanding amounts owed to them around the world. The game needs robust player contract systems that work and are respected in all countries. We also believe there should be fair and independent recourse and contract enforcement mechanisms for players in the event of disputes like this, such as a global arbitration body,” he conceded.

Masters Champions League (MCL) held its first tournament earlier this year in Dubai and Sharjah. The tournament is contested by former international cricketers. The inaugural season consisted of six teams and was held in January and February 2016. It was won by Virender Sehwag-led Gemini Arabians who defeated the Leo Lions in the finals.