The 2003 Cricket World Cup has generated a chain of headlines during the past few months, but for all the wrong reasons. As political concerns about Zimbabwe’s involvement in the event continue, the lengthy player sponsorship row engulfing the tournament rumbles on, posing a very real threat to the success of cricket’s premier event. The dispute about the suspension of individual player endorsement deals during the tournament continues the argument that almost derailed last year’s ICC Champions’ Trophy and there are important lessons to be learned for all sports.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has insisted that players (and individual boards of control) sign up to a charter whereby they agree not to endorse brands perceived as rivals to ICC official sponsors. This embargo is to take place during the tournament – as well as for a defined period pre- and post-tournament. Although a compromise was eventually reached for the Champions’ Trophy, currently there is no resolution in place for the World Cup – with the star Indian players having reportedly returned their standard contracts signed, but with the relevant clause altered or even deleted. As we write, discussions continue.
