Warne, McGrath to square up against Lara in ICL

NEW DELHI: Australian legends Shane Warne and Glenn McGrath are set to renew their rivalry with West Indian batting genius Brian Lara after having all but agreed to play in the Indian Cricket League.

"They are on the verge of signing the contracts. The discussions are in the final stages," Kapil Dev, India's 1983 World Cup winning captain and Chairman of the ICL, told.

Lara on Monday became the first high-profile overseas cricketer to sign up with ICL, launched by media tycoon Subhas Chandra-owned Essel Group without the approval of the Indian Cricket Board (BCCI).

Dev said the ICL would shortly announce the full list of teams and players lined up for the rebel league which is to be played in the Twenty-20 format.

He also brushed aside the BCCI's threat to not allow ICL the use of infrastructure owned by any of its affiliates.

"We have no problems. We will soon make an official announcement with all the details," Dev said.

Meanwhile, Warne himself has expressed keenness to play in the ICL.

"Playing cricket in India is always an experience. That is one reason why I am keen to take part in the new League in October and November ... If the whole package is right, then I will be out there," Warne wrote in London's 'Times' today.

"Brian Lara has committed to it and I have been speaking to him and a few other players.
   
"I know that I will miss the game during the winter ... This is ideal at roughly three weeks long. People the world over are turning to Twenty-20 for a quick fix of cricket and they will love the spectacle in India."