In a significant development, Jay Shah, the Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), has penned a strongly-worded letter addressed to all centrally contracted players and those representing India A. The letter serves as a warning against non-participation in domestic games, highlighting the ‘severe implications’ it may entail. This stern communication comes in the wake of several cricketers, including India wicketkeeper Ishan Kishan, choosing to skip the ongoing Ranji Trophy despite repeated reminders.
The letter underscores concerns about a growing trend where players prioritize the Indian Premier League (IPL) over domestic red-ball cricket, a shift that was not anticipated by the cricketing authorities. Shah emphasizes that domestic cricket has always been the foundation of Indian cricket, serving as a crucial feeder line to the national team. The secretary’s missive outlines the board’s clear vision, stating that every cricketer aspiring to play for India must prove themselves in domestic cricket, with performance in these competitions being a critical yardstick for selection.
Shah’s communication does not undermine the role of the IPL in contributing to Indian cricket but expresses the BCCI’s apprehensions regarding the potential impact on the health and status of domestic cricket. Notably, players like Ishan Kishan, Deepak Chahar of Rajasthan, and Shreyas Iyer of Mumbai have opted to skip their final-round Ranji Trophy games, raising concerns about the commitment to domestic cricket.
Drawing upon the example of legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar, Shah highlights how stalwarts of the game embraced opportunities to represent their states in domestic competitions. He emphasizes that domestic cricket was not merely viewed as a commitment but as a responsibility and a source of pride for these cricketing icons.
The letter follows comments made by head coach Rahul Dravid after the second Test match between India and England, addressing Ishan Kishan’s current position. Dravid clarified that while there is a way back for every player, Kishan needs to play some matches to be considered for selection. Dravid stated that the choice is Kishan’s, and the team is not imposing any specific conditions, but the wicketkeeper-batsman must actively engage in competitive cricket when he feels ready.
The BCCI’s stance, as articulated by Jay Shah, emphasizes the pivotal role of domestic cricket in shaping the future of Indian cricket. The board aims to reaffirm the value of performing at the domestic level as an essential step in the journey towards representing the national team. The letter is not just a warning but a reaffirmation of the BCCI’s commitment to preserving the integrity and significance of domestic cricket in the broader context of Indian cricket’s success and development.
As the cricketing landscape continues to evolve with the emergence of high-profile leagues like the IPL, the BCCI’s communication serves as a reminder that the foundations of Indian cricket rest on the performances and dedication displayed in domestic competitions. It remains to be seen how players respond to this directive and whether it triggers a shift in priorities towards balancing commitments to both domestic and franchise cricket.
