Former Indian cricketer Sreesanth has reignited discussions about the unresolved financial disputes between players and the now-defunct IPL franchise, Kochi Tuskers Kerala (KTK).
Decade-Old Debt – Kochi Tuskers Kerala
While the Indian Premier League (IPL) currently boasts 10 teams, back in 2011, it witnessed the same number (10) of teams with the inclusion of Kochi Tuskers Kerala and Pune Warriors India. However, unlike Pune’s three-year stint, KTK was terminated after their debut season due to a breach of contract.
Despite the franchise’s abrupt exit, several prominent players, including Sreesanth himself, Muttiah Muralitharan, Mahela Jayawardene, Brendon McCullum, and Ravindra Jadeja, remain unpaid for their participation in the 2011 season.
Sreesanth speaks out against Kochi Tuskers Kerala
In a recent interview, Sreesanth highlighted this ongoing issue. “They [KTK] have to pay a lot of money,” he stated. “They still haven’t.” He jokingly added, “Please remember, whenever you’re paying, remember the 18% interest every year!”
Unfulfilled Contracts
Sreesanth further revealed that the franchise was initially intended to be part of the IPL for three seasons. However, their failure to meet financial obligations led to their suspension after a single year.
“The team was supposed to be for three years, and the team was terminated in the first year,” Sreesanth lamented. “I think no one has spoken about it. Even now when the players meet, they talk about it.”
Complex legal battle ft BCCI
Reports suggest that the BCCI suspended KTK for defaulting on an annual payment of ₹155.3 crore. While one of the team owners challenged the decision in court, leading to the BCCI paying ₹550 crore to the franchise. Even then, some players reportedly never received their full dues.
Sreesanth’s statement brings renewed attention to this unresolved financial dispute. It remains to be seen if the players will finally receive their long-overdue payments, along with the hefty interest Sreesanth jokingly (but perhaps pointedly) suggested.
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