New Delhi, Feb 24 Concerned that big bucks can distract young players at the ongoing Under-19 World Cup, the BCCI has directed franchise owners of the Indian Premier League not to sign contracts with these players for the time being.

Currently the Indian youngsters are doing well in the Under-19 World Cup in Malaysia and the IPL agents have been trying to hire these players by offering lucrative contracts.

The IPL stipulations say that each of the eight franchisees must hire at least four under-22 players and amounts ranging from USD 20,000 to USD 50,000 are reportedly being offered to the youngsters to join a side.

The Indian Board, however, is not impressed with the bid to poach the young players and has issued a directive to all Under-19 cricketers and franchises not to sign any contract until further notice.

"We are not allowing any Under-19 players to sign up with a franchisee as of now," IPL Chairman and Commissioner Lalit Modi said.

About the contracts already signed with a few under-19 players, he said, "They will be null and void. (Agencies)