The International Cricket Council is considering a series of stronger regulatory measures after growing concerns emerged over corruption risks within the rapidly expanding global franchise cricket landscape, according to a report by BBC Sports Timothy Abraham. The proposals are expected to form part of discussions during the ICC’s ongoing annual conference in Edinburgh as the governing body reviews how it oversees domestic T20 competitions around the world.
Franchise growth prompts fresh integrity focus
The ICC is understood to be preparing a dedicated working group to examine how franchise cricket can be better aligned with the international calendar while also strengthening safeguards against corruption.
The move comes amid increasing concern that the rapid growth of domestic leagues across multiple territories has created new integrity challenges, particularly in newer cricket markets where governance and oversight structures may be less established.
Alongside scheduling issues, the proposed group is expected to explore ways to improve the sport’s overall anti-corruption framework and ensure more consistent standards across competitions.
Stricter approval process under consideration
Among the measures being discussed is a possible expansion of the ICC’s domestic league approval process.
At present, competitions in non-Full Member countries only require ICC approval if they feature more than four players who have represented a Full Member national team within the previous 24 months. The governing body is now considering whether that threshold should be broadened so that a greater number of tournaments fall under its direct oversight.
The ICC is also examining whether it should have stronger authority to intervene in competitions where integrity concerns arise but are not being adequately addressed by local administrators.
Illegal betting remains a growing concern
Another area under review is the relationship between franchise cricket and illegal betting markets.
The governing body is concerned that sponsorship arrangements linked to illegal betting operators could expose host boards to greater integrity risks and increase opportunities for corrupt activity within domestic competitions.
Those discussions form part of a wider review of how franchise cricket is governed as the number of professional leagues continues to expand across the global game.
Wider governance issues remain on the ICC agenda
Integrity matters are being discussed alongside several broader governance issues during the ICC’s annual meetings.
Mauritius is set to become the governing body’s newest member after meeting the required admission criteria, while applications from Colombia, Poland, Latvia, Burundi and Burkina Faso did not satisfy all membership requirements.
Meanwhile, USA Cricket and Cricket Canada remain suspended over governance-related issues. The ICC is also continuing to monitor developments involving the French cricket board and the Italian Cricket Federation as governance challenges in both countries remain under review.
The discussions in Edinburgh are expected to shape how the ICC strengthens its oversight of franchise cricket, with integrity, governance and regulatory reform emerging as key priorities for the global governing body.
