Unpaid dues, stranded players: IHPL T20 collapse sparks police probe as organisers flee

Srinagar: The Indian Heaven Premier League (IHPL), a private T20 cricket tournament intended to boost sports tourism in Jammu and Kashmir, abruptly imploded after its organisers allegedly vanished from Srinagar overnight, leaving approximately 40 participants stranded and financially unsettled.

The tournament, which featured international cricketers like West Indies star Chris Gayle and New Zealand's Jesse Ryder, was suspended midway through its scheduled run from October 25 to November 8.

Organisers gone, police probe initiated

Organised primarily by the Mohali-based non-profit Yuva Society, the management reportedly disappeared from the city without settling substantial financial dues.

Umpires, including England's Mellissa Juniper, confirmed that the organisers "fled from the hotel" and failed to pay the hotel, players, or match officials. The crisis led to players being briefly detained by hotel management over outstanding bills.

Local police have registered a case and initiated a probe into the alleged financial irregularities and disappearance of the organising body.

Players left stranded

Players, including former India all-rounder Parvez Rasool, reported being stranded in their accommodations. Some international participants, sensing issues, had already checked out before the full extent of the collapse became public.

The league had been touted as a grassroots initiative for local talent alongside international professionals at the Bakshi Stadium. However, the event was not officially recognised by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

Initial reports indicated the league suffered from poor attendance, which may have led to sponsors withdrawing and ultimately causing the financial disaster. Fans who purchased tickets for the cancelled fixtures are also demanding refunds.