ECB confirm Stanford talks

The ECB has confirmed it has held talks with Sir Allen Stanford over a lucrative new Twenty20 event.

Discussions ongoing over lucrative new event

The England and Wales Cricket Board has confirmed it has held talks with Sir Allen Stanford over a lucrative new Twenty20 event. The ECB are exploring different options as they look to limit the threat of the new Indian Premier League. Texan billionaire Stanford already bankrolls a thriving Twenty20 competition in the Caribbean. It is thought the ECB are looking into the possibility of setting up an 'English Premier League', which could be held in mid-summer. The ECB are concerned about the impact of the IPL, which this year clashes with the start of the English domestic season and offers huge money to players. A statement read: "The meetings, which were held in London, were described as 'very positive and constructive'. "Detailed proposals will be submitted to the ECB and will be further discussed during the month of May. "This is in line with the ECB concluding its strategic approach towards Twenty20 cricket."