Black Caps set deadline for IPL players

NZC chief executive Justin Vaughan made the anticipated announcement today, allowing the likes of captain Daniel Vettori and vice-captain Brendon McCullum to miss the tour match against Kent at Canterbury at the start of the three-Test trip.

Vaughan told www.blackcaps.co.nz: "I have met with individual players, the coach, the team as a whole and the New Zealand Cricket Players Association (NZCPA) to discuss the arrival options for the IPL players and have reached a decision which I believe is fair and is also consistent with the best cricketing outcome.

"When the itinerary for the England tour was put in place, it was not envisaged that a number of our players would be playing quality cricket in India.

"For players that are playing a high standard of international cricket, two weeks is a good level of preparation."

Vaughan sees the beginning of May as a fair compromise.

"The May 1 deadline date will give the players time to acclimatise to playing in English conditions - because they will be available for two first-class matches, prior to the Test series beginning.

"The England and Wales Cricket Board have also been consulted and are happy with the decision."

NZC are mindful of the winds of change in international cricket - and the need to adapt.

"The IPL has the ability to retain players in the international game and has our full support," Vaughan added. "The global cricket landscape is changing rapidly, and we must be flexible enough to change with it - while protecting the integrity of the international game.

"I am very happy with the attitude shown by the affected players. They have shown loyalty and commitment to the Black Caps and were willing to abide by whatever decision NZC reached."

The players affected are Vettori, wicketkeeper McCullum, all-rounder Jacob Oram, batsman Ross Taylor and seamer Kyle Mills.