Australia VS England ODI: Moeen Ali's "horrible" jibe again raises questions about the cricket grinds

The player caught in the eye of the storm this time is Moeen Ali, who was not at all subtle in his criticism that England is playing an ODI series just three days after being crowned world champions. 

"Having a game in three days' time, it's horrible. But it's better than two days' time. If it had rained on Sunday, it would have been two days (due to the reserve day for the final)," Moeen Ali had said. 

"As players, we're kind of getting used to it now. But to give 100% all the time is difficult when you're playing every two or three days." 

He found himself being criticised by former Australia captain Michael Clarke, who said players shouldn't be complaining about the international schedule. 

"If it was playing in the T20 World Cup and then the next day get on a plane to depart for the IPL, I don't think you'd hear anybody whinge," Fox Sports quoted Michael Clarke as saying. 

"Players can't complain about the international schedule when they're taking the opportunity to play domestic cricket as well for franchises for money when you can have those 6-8 weeks off. 

"Then you'd be fresh as a daisy. I've obviously found that very hard." 

There are two ways of looking at this entire situation. Firstly, both players are in the right place. Moeen Ali is correct to say that it is hard to maintain the same intensity consistently – especially after winning a World Cup; going back to playing straight away is a bit tough. 

However, this wasn't a surprise series that was scheduled – everyone knew England would be staying back in Australia for an ODI series, so this is no big shock. 

That's where Michael Clarke is correct to say there's no point in having a moan. Yes, the schedule is harsh, but everyone knows that already. But that's where Michael Clarke's issue comes to an end. 

The idea that players should skip domestic leagues and stay fresh is laughable. First, even if a few players make that call, most won't – the money on offer is too good, and no one should judge anyone for looking to earn more. 

It is especially true for athletes whose earning window is shorter due to the span of their professional careers. 

Secondly, the cricket calendar is packed – even without these franchise leagues. The new ICC Future Tours Programme (FTP) has seen an increase in the number of games across formats. 

This means that the focus from everyone in a position of power in the sport is simple – squeeze every drop of revenue out that you can. 

If it is all about the money for the game's stakeholders, then players should not be judged for being mercenaries, either. 

And perhaps this debate will only end once those in power realise that the relentless schedule is doing more long-term harm than anything else.