England stars agree IPL deal
England's top cricketers have signed their central contracts - allowing them the opportunity to play in the Indian Premier League.
The signing of the annual 12-month deals, which run from September 30, was delayed because of a dispute between the players and their bosses at the England and Wales Cricket Board over how big a window was available to them for IPL action.
They have agreed a 21-day period for Test players, beginning in April, shortly after the conclusion of the current Caribbean tour.
"They have been signed by the players and we are waiting on the IPL to come back with confirmation," said all-rounder Paul Collingwood, on the first full day of England's 11-week trip.
"From our point of view, the IPL is exciting."
The England and Wales Cricket Board have also allowed those players not centrally contracted a 28-day period to participate in the second season of India's 20-over competition.
The moves should now result in an influx of Englishmen to the 20-over competition, including star duo Kevin Pietersen and Andrew Flintoff, particularly given IPL chairman Lalit Modi's positive noises.
Modi appeared to accept the three-week availability, having previously snubbed a 15-day proposal by the ECB.
Modi told Sky Sports News: "We need to figure out very quickly if the English players can be part of it. Of course we would like them to be part of it."
The initial list of players for the next IPL auction will be published on Friday with January 27 the closing date for additions. Players sold to teams at the auction will be contracted to the respective franchise for two seasons - meaning a return to the subcontinent next year.
