The more I think about this, the more I think that it is all about finding the right solution for yourself and needs of your country. India, Sri Lanka and South Africa needed a franchise type system for domestic cricket to take off in any way. Hardly anyone cares about Ranji or PL in India or Sri Lanka.
If a domestic players goes well there and then the common line, "It is poor standard domestic competition, he just minnow basher comes through." The fact that performances by say Mendis and Agarkar for example in the franchise competition have put them in the selectors minds says something about the need for these competition in those countries.
Mendis for example was preforming at a similar level and probably better level (stats wise) for his domestic club SL Army. But wasn't even talked about as International bowler until his performances in the provincial (franchise) competition.
South Africa I'm not 100% sure about the situation there. I think a lot hard to do with some poor players were playing in the major FC competition and the fact the competition was becoming stale, was the main reasons for change. South Africa is also an example of how it probably hasn't been a complete success. But a lot of that has to do with Kolplax.
With regard to England though. When I first saw this in the media, I personally thought it was just a me too thing. India done well with franchises and a new Twenty20 format, maybe we should cash in as well. But realistical it not going to work in England. As the major problem ATM is probably the lack of chances for young English players. If you cut teams down to six, even just for Twenty20 and allow 4 overseas players. Likely not to include Kolpax and European qualified players. You will just end of with sides with only a couple English players.
But in saying all that there needs to be change to Twenty20 format. As it is already out dated and if they want to do more then just make up the number in Champions League, then there does need to some changes. A divisional structure, rather then groups and more Twenty20 specialist overseas players is probably a start.
I also think Australia need to consider allowing overseas players to play in Australian Twenty20 KFC Cup as well. The India sides will wipe the floor with that tournment unless Australia, South Africa and England allow some/more overseas players into their sides.
