ICC Plans to Standardize Franchise League Rules, Affecting MLC and ILT20

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is considering implementing a unified set of rules for all major franchise cricket leagues worldwide. A review group set up by the ICC has proposed several regulations, including a cap on the number of overseas players allowed in each team, with leagues like Major League Cricket (MLC) in the US and the UAE's ILT20 potentially being most affected due to their heavy reliance on foreign players. Currently, ILT20 permits up to nine overseas players per playing XI, and MLC allows up to six. The ICC is also looking at expanding its authority to review and sanction leagues, limiting sponsorship from betting entities, and charging sanction fees. The ICC's executive meeting scheduled in Bali will likely decide on these proposals, which could force certain leagues to focus more on local talent development.