BCCI
BCCI

BCCI takes big steps, makes domestic participation mandatory for national team selection: All players must play in domestic matches in order to be eligible for central contracts and selection for the national team, according to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

The move is aimed at keeping players engaged with the domestic cricket system, ensuring they contribute to talent development, maintain match fitness and strengthen the overall structure of domestic cricket.

According to a BCCI policy document accessed by India Today, players are expected to compete in tournaments such as the Ranji Trophy, Vijay Hazare Trophy and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.

By playing in these competitions, senior players can inspire young cricketers, give them a chance to play with some of the best players in the country and promote continuity of talent.

Exceptions to the rule will only be granted in exceptional circumstances, with the formal approval of the chairman of the selection committee, ensuring fairness and transparency in the process.

This new focus on domestic cricket comes after growing criticism following two consecutive series losses to New Zealand and Australia. Many have demanded senior players including Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to participate in the Ranji Trophy to regain their red-ball form. These demands grew stronger after India’s loss to Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy where both batsmen struggled for consistency.

Rohit also decided to skip the final Test in Sydney. Rohit Sharma has been seen participating in Mumbai’s practice sessions ahead of the Ranji Trophy resumption on January 23, indicating a possible return to domestic cricket. However, Virat Kohli has not yet revealed any plans to join the Delhi team.

Meanwhile, players like Rishabh Pant, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill have confirmed their availability for the upcoming domestic fixtures, indicating the importance of domestic cricket among India’s established and rising stars.

Cricket legends like Sunil Gavaskar and Ravi Shastri, along with current India head coach Gautam Gambhir, have stressed on the importance of domestic cricket in developing and maintaining players’ form

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