‘IPL is better than playing Pakistan’: Michael Vaughan slams England board

The exit of English players from the Indian Premier League before the playoffs has damaged their franchises’ hopes of doing well in the decisive phase of the championship. While international cricket is a priority for every cricket board in the world, former England captain Michael Vaughan doesn’t think a series against Pakistan would lead to better preparation for the 2024 T20 World Cup. Vaughan giving his verdict scathing about the England board’s decision to recall their IPL players, feels that players like Jos Buttler, Phil Salt, Will Jacks, etc. they would have benefited more from playing in India.

“I think you will make a mistake by sending all the players home. You know, I think Will Jacks, Phil Salt, Jos Butler, in particular, playing in the IPL in the qualifiers, pressure, crowd, expectation. I would argue that playing here is better preparation than playing a T20 game against Pakistan,” Vaughan said on the Club Praire podcast.

“I’m all for international cricket, but every now and then, this particular tournament is so exposed to pressure. These players are under enormous pressure from fans, owners and social media. those two, and Butler, probably not as much, but I still think he could have stayed here,” Vaughan said.

Players like Buttler, Jacks and Salt were part of IPl franchises that advanced to the playoffs. Vaughan feels that Jacks and Salt, considering their experience, would have definitely benefited more from playing the IPL.

“But Will Jacks and Phil Salt, I think they would be better prepared to stay here and play in the IPL, then come back and let’s go play,” concluded Vaughan.

Pakistan were no match for England in the first T20I, with Buttler’s men securing a 23-run victory in the opening match on Saturday. Although Buttler was named man of the match for his 84, Jacks and Salt did not deliver much with the bat.