Sunil Gavaskar has slammed several foreign players for pulling out of the early stages of the Indian Premier League 2026, taking the league’s hospitality for granted and urging franchises to take a tougher stance.A number of high-profile absentees are set to miss the opening matches. Australian fast trio Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins And Mitchell Starc Unavailable for the first three games due to fitness concerns, Cricket Australia is reportedly juggling his workload amid a demanding schedule. Meanwhile, Loki Ferguson He is also ready to miss some matches while spending time with his newborn child.Writing in his Sportsstar column, Gavaskar did not hold back in his assessment of the situation, pointing out what he believed to be a recurring problem with some foreign players.“It is also normal to underestimate the franchise with some foreign players, who will not be available due to non-injury and personal reasons,” Gavaskar wrote. He added, “Franchise owners go out of their way to accommodate their players who often pay families to come and spend time with the players, mind you. It’s the Indian way and hospitality, which some people often misunderstand and then try to take advantage of.”He further warned that such delayed availability disrupts team balance and planning, demanding strict action from franchisees.“We are already hearing about some players who will not be available for various reasons, none of which were communicated to the franchise prior to selection. Unless the franchise owners start getting tough and letting go of these players, they will find themselves hampered in their efforts to win the title. All the planning of a squad that they believe will help them win, goes out the window when the players decide to turn up whenever they want.Gavaskar’s comments echo similar concerns raised by others in the cricket community. Akash Chopra Recently criticized Ferguson’s absence, while Ravichandran Ashwin Kolkata Knight Riders should consider downsizing. Cameron Greenecontract value if he is unable to bowl during the season.With the start of IPL 2026, the debate about player availability and franchise planning is once again in full swing.
