With the T20 World Cup set to begin in February, serious off-field concerns have emerged, with WCA concerned for vulnerable teams competing in the expanded 20-team tournament. The World Cricketers Association (WCA) has warned that nearly 90 players, largely from lower-ranked and emerging nations, risk having their rights diluted through non-approved “squad terms” circulated ahead of the event.
According to a confidential memo accessed by Cricbuzz, WCA concerned for vulnerable teams stems from discrepancies between the ICC’s version of squad contracts and the WCA-approved model. These differences could affect players from teams such as the USA, Zimbabwe, and Namibia, many of whom rely heavily on ICC events for income and career progression.
Contract terms raise red flags
At the heart of why WCA concerned for vulnerable teams is the fear that players may be forced into signing contracts that remove consent over image rights, personal data, and media obligations. The ICC version allegedly allows for unlimited content capture, including dressing-room access, with approvals needed only from team managers rather than players or captains.
The memo claims this approach targets the “most vulnerable and worst-paid” players, reinforcing why WCA concerned for vulnerable teams has become a pressing issue. Unlike established cricket nations, these players often lack strong domestic contracts or legal backing, making them more exposed to one-sided agreements.
Data ownership and dispute resolution worries
Another major reason WCA concerned for vulnerable teams involves player data ownership. Under the ICC’s disputed terms, a player’s data could be fully controlled and commercialised by governing bodies without individual consent. In contrast, the WCA-backed version ensures players retain ownership and decision-making authority.
Dispute resolution is also contentious. The ICC model reportedly removes independent arbitration, forcing players into internal ICC-run processes. This imbalance further explains why WCA concerned for vulnerable teams has intensified ahead of the tournament.
WCA response and expectations
WCA chief executive Tom Moffat confirmed that affected players have now signed the correct, approved squad terms. Still, WCA concerned for vulnerable teams remains vigilant that these safeguards are honoured during the World Cup itself.
“It’s especially troubling that different playing groups could compete under unequal conditions,” Moffat noted, underlining why WCA concerned for vulnerable teams is not just a contractual issue but one of fairness.
As global cricket continues to grow, WCA concerned for vulnerable teams serves as a reminder that expansion must not come at the cost of player rights. With the tournament looming, the spotlight remains firmly on how the ICC upholds its commitments and ensures equal protections for all participants.
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