Modi raises prospect of other countries hosting IPL like tourney in future

Wellington/Mumbai, Oct.14 (ANI): Indian Premier League (IPL) Commissioner Lalit Modi has raised the prospect of other countries, including South Africa, Australia or New Zealand hosting a similar league in the future.

Though welcoming the news, New Zealand Cricket Chairman Justin Vaughan expressed doubts about New Zealand being in the market, given the unfavourable time of year to play cricket in this country.

The New Zealand Herald however quoted Vaughan as saying that talks were still ongoing about attracting sponsors for the domestic four-day first class championship and 50-over competitions this season.

If nothing was forthcoming, there was no threat to either competition, with solid revenue streams coming in from the international side of the game, he said.

He said that the winner of the HRV-sponsored domestic Twenty20 tournament in January will represent New Zealand in next year's Champion League.

The tournament will be held around the same time of year, but there is a question mark over which country will host it.

Meanwhile Otago's lame performances in the inaugural Champions League has been acknowledged by skipper Craig Cumming.

"We had high expectations," he said. (ANI)