The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has taken firm action against players awaiting the Indian Premier League (IPL) by mandating their participation in state teams for Ranji Trophy matches. In a bid to instil discipline, the BCCI, in collaboration with national selectors, has issued a directive to players not currently part of the national squad or undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru.
Effective immediately, players are required to join their respective state teams for the upcoming round of Ranji Trophy matches starting on February 16. This decision impacts players like Ishan Kishan, who have abstained from competitive cricket to focus on IPL preparations.
The ruling extends to other players like Krunal Pandya and Deepak Chahar, who have been inactive in Ranji Trophy matches, and individuals like Shreyas Iyer, excluded from the national team due to poor form.
A BCCI official emphasized the importance of players honoring their commitments to domestic cricket, stating, “Players cannot simply prioritize international cricket or the IPL. They must make themselves available for domestic cricket and honour their commitments to their respective state teams.”
Ishan Kishan’s prolonged absence from competitive cricket has sparked concerns, particularly his decision to opt out of playing for Jharkhand in the Ranji Trophy despite being released from the Indian squad during the South Africa series. Despite criticism, Ishan remains steadfast in his focus on IPL preparations.