Harinath is hoping the BCCI will allow their players to participate in the BBL

Chairman of Cricket New South Wales Harry Harinath has announced that if the Big Bash League (BBL) teams were able to sign Indian players, then the popularity of the tournament could skyrocket to a level never seen before.

Harinath, who is also a Cricket Australia board member, will be travelling with New South Wales Premier Barry O’Farrell to India next month in an attempt to convince the Board Of Control For Cricket In India (BCCI) to allow their players to play in the BBL.

The Sydney Morning Herald quoted Harinath as saying: “The BCCI [Board of Control for Cricket in India] don’t allow any of their contracted players to play in other competitions. It’s an ongoing issue and Cricket Australia is in discussions with them about it.”

According to the newspaper, Indian players are made to sign airtight contracts, and, unlike Australia, the players are not represented by any players’ association, who can negotiate better wages and terms for their contract.

However, Harinath noted that he was expecting a positive outcome when he met with BCCI officials next month.

“It is achievable. If we could get an Indian player in each franchise, it would be great for the games being broadcast in India. They’re already doing well, India is a nation that loves watching cricket on television, the Sheffield Shield is watched keenly there … but if we could get an Indian player in each Big Bash League franchise it would take the television ratings to an even higher level [in India],” Harinath added.