The DLF Indian Premier League (IPL) has received another shot in the arm with seven of the 10 South African cricketers contracted to play in the multi-million dollar tournament getting a waiver from the domestic tournament back home.

There was talk that five players of the South African team — currently touring India — would have to leave after the third Test in Kanpur to play for their domestic Twenty20 team Cobras in South Africa. Graeme Smith (picture right), Mark Boucher, Herschelle Gibbs, Jacques Kallis and Ashwell Prince have however been allowed to stay back in India after the Test series is over and take part in the IPL beginning April 18. “We are grateful to the South African board and their team (Cobras) for allowing these players for the IPL,” Lalit Modi said on Monday evening.

Three others South African cricketers, AB de Villiers, Albie Morkel and Dale Steyn — who’re a part of the Twenty20 team ‘Titans’ — have also received assurance to be a part of the IPL. Modi informed that “talks are on currently regarding their availability and we should be able to arrive at a positive conclusion in the next 24 hours.”

Meanwhile, Shaun Pollock, Makhaya Ntini and Loots Bosman — who play for Dolphins, Warriors and Eagles respectively — will also be available. In short, if talks with the South African board and the ‘Titans’ comes through, all ten South African players who had signed contracts with the IPL will be available for the entire tournament.

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