Paul Nixon is confident he will be eligible to play for Leicestershire next year despite signing up for a second season with the ICL.
Foxes skipper to play on in rebel league without fear
Leicestershire captain Paul Nixon is confident he will be eligible to play for the Foxes next year despite signing up for a second season with the Indian Cricket League.
Doubts have been cast over the wicket-keeper's registration for the 2009 domestic campaign after he extended his contract with the ICL, which is currently regarded as an unauthorised competition by the International Cricket Council.
In March, the England and Wales Cricket Board hardened their stance on players taking part in such events and said it was possible any who did may not be registered for county cricket.
Nixon has taken legal advice on the issue and believes he will not be penalised because he re-signed for the ICL in February, before the ECB made their announcement.
He told the
Leicester Mercury: "I have spoken to the people who represented Andrew Hall, Johannes van der Wath and Nicky Boje.
"They all played in the ICL last year and were banned by the ECB before they won their cases. They've seen my contract and don't think the ECB can quash it.
"As things stand now I would expect to be signing for Leicestershire again next year. I'm still desperate to play county cricket and captain Leicestershire.
Compromise
"I learned a lot this year. There are some things that I would have done differently but that is how life is. It was a really good challenge and I want to do it again and get better and better."
Nixon played in the ICL with Delhi last year and the latest tournament is due to begin on October 10.
Furthermore, the ICL have had a request granted by the ICC to meet for talks where the rebel league hope to reach a compromise over the status of the competition.
Leicestershire chief executive David Smith is keen to receive guidance from the ECB in relation to the issue as soon as possible.
"We will support any decision taken by the ECB relating to Paul participating in the ICL," Smith said.
"Should he wish to challenge any decision made, he will not be financially supported by the club.
"I've also explained to Paul that his situation has made it very difficult for the club to plan for next season until we are aware of the effect of his participation in the ICL on his registration to play county cricket next season for Leicestershire. I am asking the ECB for an early ruling on the matter."
