Lehmann to play in rebel ICL

Former Australian cricketer Darren Lehmann has confirmed that he will be joining the rebel Indian Cricket League (ICL).

Melbourne, Feb.20 : Former Australian cricketer Darren Lehmann has confirmed that he will be joining the rebel Indian Cricket League (ICL).

Lehmann, who is the President of the Australian Cricketers Association, said he has received Cricket Australia's blessing.

"We have discussed it already and cleared up that situation to make sure if it came to that I could play," Fox Sports quoted Lehmann, as saying.

"It's a good opportunity to play, playing against guys you have played with and against and yeah, it's really good coin. They're probably the reasons you'd go," he added.

Lehmann also endorsed the decision by Haddin and Johnson not to join the IPL.

"They are going to be pretty busy with international cricket and they obviously want to make sure they are ready to go and play at their peak for Australia each and every time," Lehmann said.

Meanwhile, the ACA is seeking legal advice against CA's carefully worded statement last week claiming any player who joined the breakaway ICL would struggle to be considered for selection.

The ACA and the international players' association FICA believe professional cricketers have the right to consider any offer to earn a living and banning players who join the ICL is a restraint of trade.

"It will be discussed at the executive meeting next week," ACA chief executive Paul Marsh said on Tuesday.

ANI