New Zealand face further ICL pressure

New Zealand are reportedly in danger of losing three more of their players to the Indian Cricket League (ICL), which has already added Shane Bond and Andre Adams to its extensive list of New Zealand talent. Heath Mills, the New Zealand Players' Association manager, did not reveal any names but told NZPA he was aware "of three other players who have spoken to agents regarding the ICL".

Last year's inaugural tournament featured Chris Cairns, Craig McMillan, Nathan Astle, Chris Harris, Daryl Tuffey and Hamish Marshall, with Bond and Adams in line for this year's edition. NZPA said two current members of the national team and another fringe international player had been in contact with ICL representatives.

Chris Martin, 33, is one man who might benefit from such negotiations after he was overlooked by the Indian Premier League (IPL). He said the ICL was a lure but he had not given up hope of becoming involved in the IPL.

"A contract with the IPL is the dream result, really," Martin said. "I'm enjoying playing for New Zealand and, hopefully, I'm playing my way into a position where I can get a contract."

Mathew Sinclair might be another candidate as he fights to keep his place in the Test side while attempting to regain a spot in the ODI line-up. Sinclair, 32, said he would be open "to a halfway decent offer" from the ICL, although he had not received one.