Rumors have been swirling around the cricket world regarding Jason Roy‘s decision to pursue his future in franchise cricket, specifically his deal with Major League Cricket (MLC) outfit LA Knight Riders. However, the England opener has come forward to blast these rumors and clarify his stance on the matter. Roy emphasizes his unwavering commitment to representing his country and sets the record straight about his priorities.
Let’s take a look at the details and understand Roy’s perspective on the controversial move : Jason Roy
Roy’s Commitment to England Cricket
- Roy took to social media to express his dedication to playing for England, stating that representing his country remains his proudest moment as a professional cricketer.
- He reiterated that playing for England will always be his priority, especially with the upcoming World Cup on the horizon.
The MLC Opportunity
- Roy clarified that his decision to participate in MLC was made after clear and supportive conversations with the England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB).
- As a single-format player with no central contract, Roy saw the MLC opportunity as a chance to engage in competitive cricket, benefiting him as an England player.
- The ECB agreed for him to play in the MLC on the condition that they wouldn’t have to pay him for the remainder of his contractual year.
Jason Roy Sets the Record Straight: “I’ll Never Walk Away from England
Termination of ECB Incremental Contract
- Roy confirmed that he terminated his ECB incremental contract to pursue the MLC opportunity fully.
- The ECB, in an official statement, clarified that this decision would not affect Roy’s selection for future England teams, expressing confidence in his commitment to England cricket.
Financial Considerations
- Roy’s Rs 3 crore deal with LA Knight Riders is worth significantly more than his ECB incremental contract.
- The ECB incremental contracts act as top-ups to county salaries, and Roy’s deal would have provided an additional £66,000 per year.
- Players on incremental contracts, including Reece Topley, are considering the move to MLC due to the financial incentives it offers.
The Future of English Players in MLC
- While players on full central contracts are unlikely to participate in MLC this year, those on incremental deals may seize the opportunity.
- Reece Topley, Roy’s Surrey and England teammate, is also weighing up the merits of the move, depending on his fitness status after shoulder surgery.
The ECB’s Position
- The ECB, aware of the growing influence of franchise leagues, is in the process of revamping its central contract system for the 2023-24 season.
- The board ensures that players’ decisions to leave incremental contracts will not impact their future selection for England teams.
Jason Roy Sets the Record Straight: “I’ll Never Walk Away from England
Jason Roy’s decision to terminate his ECB incremental contract and pursue the MLC opportunity with LA Knight Riders has been met with rumors and speculation. However, Roy has made it clear that his commitment to England cricket remains unwavering. Representing his country continues to be his proudest moment, and he looks forward to playing for England for many more years. As the cricket landscape evolves with the rise of franchise leagues, the ECB is adapting its contract system to accommodate players’ participation in such tournaments.
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