IHPL Turns Into Major Scam; Gayle, Ryder, Others Stranded In Srinagar Hotel After Organisers Flee
Srinagar: The much-hyped Indian Heaven Premier League (IHPL), touted as a platform to discover cricketing talent from Kashmir, has turned into a massive scam after organisers allegedly disappeared, leaving behind several former international cricketers — including Chris Gayle — stranded in a Srinagar hotel over unpaid bills.
The tournament, organised by the Mohali-based Yuva Society, began with great fanfare in late October, featuring billboards across the city showcasing stars like Gayle, Jesse Ryder, Shakib Al Hasan, and Devon Smith. The event promised an exciting mix of global and local talent, with matches scheduled at the Bakshi Stadium until November 8.
However, the league came to an abrupt halt on Saturday when players refused to take the field, citing non-payment of dues. The organisers reportedly fled the city, forcing the hotel management to detain the players and officials until outstanding payments were cleared.
The situation came to light when English umpire Mellisa Juniper revealed that none of the participants had been paid. “We have not received any payment,” she said, adding that hotel staff informed her the organisers were “missing.” Police later visited the hotel, but no official action has been confirmed yet.
Gayle, who had previously played in the Legends League tournament in Kashmir last year, was among the major attractions for local fans. Unlike that successful event, however, the IHPL failed to draw large crowds despite featuring international names.
The league consisted of eight teams — Srinagar Sultans, Jammu Lions, Ladakh Heroes, Pulwama Titans, Uri Panthers, Gulmarg Royals, Patnitop Warriors, and Kishtwar Giants — each led by a former international player.
Despite paying rent for the Bakshi Stadium in advance, the organisers’ lack of experience in managing such a large event has raised serious questions. Secretary of the J&K Sports Council, Nuzhat Gul, clarified that the council merely rented out the venue. “I have no association with IHPL. I attended the inauguration only as an invitee,” she said.
Adding to the controversy, the Yuva Society’s website used photos of former cricketers Surendra Khanna and Ashu Dani without clarifying their roles in the tournament.
The abrupt collapse of the IHPL has sparked outrage among fans and players alike, with calls for an investigation into how the organisers were allowed to host the league without proper vetting or financial guarantees.
