LONDON, Feb 7: Indian Premier League’s star attraction Shane Warne has voiced his support for the rival Indian Cricket League, saying it is “ridiculous” and “short-sighted” to ban players like Shane Bond for associating with the Essel Group-backed venture.

”I think of the IPL and ICL together in promoting and expanding the game. With that in mind, it is ridiculous that Shane Bond should be banned for taking part in the ICL,” Warne said. “It just strikes me as short-sighted that one of the most exciting bowlers in the world is no longer allowed to play for New Zealand. He is one of their best players,” he wrote in his column for The Times.

Warne, who agreed to play for the IPL for a hefty sum, said both the tournaments were good for the sport. “I think this is an incredible time for world, as well as Indian, cricket.

The IPL and the Indian Cricket League are not only good for the players, but also for the spectators at the grounds and watching on television,” Warne said.

“The Indian venture will pay off for everyone, even the (English) counties. The new leagues in India are providing tremendous opportunities for players and giving cricket more exposure in its biggest marketplace,” the leg-spinner added. —Agencies