The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly dissatisfied with the approach of certain established Indian players towards red-ball cricket, particularly the Ranji Trophy. As per a report in the Times of India, the BCCI is preparing to direct all contracted players to participate in domestic cricket, specifically the Ranji Trophy, when not on national duty. This move is expected to be communicated to the players in the coming days, with only those who are injured or undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) being exempt.
This development comes in light of the absence of wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan from the Indian team across all formats, despite being fully fit. Although head coach Rahul Dravid has highlighted the need for Kishan to play some cricket before rejoining the national side, the player has not made himself available for selection in the Ranji Trophy, choosing instead to practice with the Pandya brothers in Baroda.
Rahul Dravid said, "whenever Ishan Kishan is ready, I didn't say he has to play domestic cricket, but some cricket and come back. We're not forcing him to do anything". pic.twitter.com/tUH7DFiQaT
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) February 5, 2024
The BCCI’s intention to ensure players’ participation in the Ranji Trophy when not on national duty is aimed at highlighting the importance of red-ball cricket and providing opportunities for players to prove their form and fitness in first-class cricket. It is also a means to discourage players from shifting their focus to T20 cricket, particularly with the Indian Premier League (IPL) approaching, without prioritizing first-class cricket commitments.
The BCCI isn't too happy with certain established Indian players' attitude towards red-ball cricket. (TOI). pic.twitter.com/P8DaBlcCUB
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) February 12, 2024