After ECB's decision to pull out from Pak series, Michael Atherton questions board over IPL

Taking a jibe at the England and Wales Cricket Board's decision of calling off England's tour to Pakistan, former cricketer Michael Atherton questioned ECB's decision to allow English players to participate in the ongoing Indian Premier League.

The English board cited concern for players as its reason for cancelling the Pakistan trip. However, they have allowed IPL bound English players to participate in IPL playoffs if they want to. This has irked many cricketers and fans who are now criticising the board for its contradicting stand.

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Atherton wrote a piece in 'The Times' where he pointed out that 'if ECB is so wary of its players' travel and cricketing commitments, it should surely take more interest in players' availability for the IPL.'

The 53-year-old went on to compare England's withdrawal with India's cancellation of the Manchester Test. Calling the former worse, he said while India's action was hard to justify, it was at least understandable given Covid had come in close proximity of the team.

Before England who were to play a 2 match ODI series in mid-October, New Zealand Cricket pulled out of a Pakistan series citing security concerns.