FICA takes steps to help players navigate Wild West landscape

LONDON: The Federation of International Cricketers’ Associations (FICA) said on Wednesday it had established a resource to help improve the professionalism of domestic competitions amid concerns about contract-related issues that left players vulnerable.

FICA said its review of the top men’s and women’s domestic leagues showed one in four players experienced the late or non-payment of salaries, while there was also opposition to unions.

The body said its Leagues Hub resource aims to better inform players, agents and players’ associations by consolidating data, including the status of each league and the reported issues within them, which could also help improve the treatment of players.

“The growth of domestic leagues around the world has been a great thing for cricket and has provided new opportunities for players,” FICA Chief Executive Tom Moffat said in a statement.

“However, inconsistencies with the treatment of players have led to the landscape being considered by many as the ‘Wild West.’

“FICA continues to advocate for fit for purpose global regulation and increased accountability in the domestic leagues landscape to protect all stakeholders, including players.”