Former Australian and Mumbai Indians (MI) pacer Mitchell Johnson has asked the Australian players not to return for the remainder of the Indian Premier League (IPL) and Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025 seasons.
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Both the IPL and the PSL had to be suspended midway due to rising tensions across the border between India and Pakistan in the past week.
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The tournaments are being resumed from Saturday, May 17, after a ceasefire agreement between the two nations. A lot of overseas players have opted not to return, while some have already joined their respective franchises.
The overseas players were shell-shocked due to the recent developments, as a big chunk of them had flown home due to escalating tensions.
While Cricket Australia (CA) have given their players the choice to return, some have asked their players to return within a stipulated date. Now it's up to the personal decision of the players if they want to continue playing in the remaining fixtures of both the tournaments.
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Mitchell Johnson speaks about the importance of life amidst cricket
The former Australian pacer, who was once a part of the Mumbai Indians family, has claimed that a cricketer's life should be the utmost priority amid the hiatus revolving around the two tournaments.
In his column in the West Australian, Johnson wrote, "Cricket might involve mega bucks these days but it is still just a game, and that has been brought sharply into focus after the Indian Premier League’s hiatus this week.
"Given the rising military tensions between India and Pakistan after their recent conflict, and the heightened risk during the ceasefire - which isn’t a guarantee for safety - it’s understandable that players might be hesitant to return to an environment they fled due to safety concerns."
Johnson acknowledged that the players have the right to make their own decisions, as they can face severe professional and financial repercussions in case they opt out of the tournaments.
"While Cricket Australia has empowered players to make their own decisions, the weight of those choices can be heavy. Opting not to play could lead to disappointment or even professional and financial repercussions down the track, but prioritising safety is first and foremost."
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He further added that the players are weighing up the potential risks before heading for the remainder of the season in their respective leagues.
"Hearing accounts of the challenges faced in those regions only underscores the need for caution. It’s reported that players are weighing up the potential risks and the broader implications of their decisions."
Mitchell Johnson calls for robust security protocols
Mitchell Johnson feels that the well-being of the players participating the respective leagues should be the topmost priority now.
"Ultimately, the choice should be about what feels safest and most right for each individual, rather than just a commitment to a franchise or winning a tournament."
"Robust security protocols are essential in maintaining a safe environment for everyone involved in the sport. Even in peaceful times, the unpredictability of situations can necessitate heightened security measures. The priority must always be the well-being of those participating in or attending these events."
Mitchell Johnson feels that the IPL and the PSL should consider closing as of now
"If I had to make a call whether to head back to India and finish the tournament, it would be an easy decision. It’s a no from me. Lives and safety are the most important thing, not pay cheques."
"It’s a personal decision. No one should be coerced or feel pressured into going back, even if the IPL and Pakistan Super League, which has also been halted, push hard for it. Both tournaments should just end now or consider moving, which then becomes a huge financial issue."
'Australian & South African players need to prepare for WTC final'
The Aussie pace battery reminded everyone that with the World Test Championship (WTC) around the corner, players' preparation and match fitness remain an issue.
"And let’s not forget that some Australian and South African players will need to prepare for the upcoming World Test Championship final.
"With the IPL final now pushed back to June 3, just a week before the WTC final starts at Lord’s, the impact on players’ preparation for what is supposedly as Test cricket’s showpiece match is another issue."
He further mentioned that Cricket South Africa have been tougher with their players than Australia, although there has been decent financial ties between India and South Africa for the SA20 tournament.
"South Africa appear to be taking a much harder line with their players than Australia, which is interesting given the financial ties between India and South Africa through the SA20 competition."