Alex Hales elects to play in Bangladesh Premier League despite fears of corruption and players' non-payment

ENGLAND Twenty20 star Alex Hales will defy advice from the players’ union to appear in the Bangladesh Premier League next month.

Hales was signed for £50,000 by Duronto Rajshahi in the BPL auction and fully intends playing in the event which starts on January 13.

But the Professional Cricketers’ Association is warning players to be extremely cautious about taking part.

Several county players had to wait months for their wages from last year’s BPL and some backroom staff have still not been paid.

The event has also been hit by spot-fixing scandals.

Hales, Ravi Bopara and Luke Wright are the only three England players involved but a cluster of county players have been snapped up.

And Hales, who top-scored with 56 in England’s T20 defeat by India on Thursday, believes he will benefit from playing in Bangladesh.

He said: “I did see what the PCA said and have a little concern.

“But there’s a Twenty20 World Cup coming up in less than two years in Bangladesh, so any experience there is invaluable.

“Twenty20 tournaments such as the Big Bash in Australia are definitely something I’d like to be a part of.

“I think it will make me a better player for England. It should be a great experience and help my development.”

Hales has been barred by his county Nottinghamshire from taking part in the more lucrative Indian Premier League in April.

Notts have also told Samit Patel and Michael Lumb they cannot put their names forward for the IPL auction.

Hales added: “I wasn’t allowed to go into the IPL, which is fine, and it means I can prepare fully for the county season.

“I’m not too fussed — the four-day game is important and I really want to do well for Notts next summer.”