The exclusion of Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer from the BCCI’s central contracts drew mixed reactions, with some former players supporting the duo. However, India ’83 WC-winning icon Kapil Dev commended the BCCI’s move to prioritize domestic cricket, emphasizing that no individual is greater than the nation. He expressed sadness over established players neglecting domestic tournaments once they attain international success.
“A few players will suffer, but let it be,” said legendary former India captain Kapil Dev.
Kapil praised the BCCI for safeguarding the prestige of domestic cricket and stressed the importance of established stars participating in state-level competitions as a means of giving back to their origins. He lauded the decision to increase pensions for former cricketers, recognizing it as a significant relief for many families.
“Yes, few players will suffer, kuch logon ko taqleef hogi, hone do lekin desh se badhkar koi nahi hai (some people will feel hurt but let it be because nobody is bigger than the country). Well done,” he said.
“I congratulate the BCCI for taking the much needed step to protect the status of domestic cricket. I was sad to see domestic cricket being given the skip by players once they had established themselves in international cricket,”
Ishan Kishan- Shreyas Iyer snubbed off BCCI Central Contract:
In the case of Ishan Kishan, the 25-year-old opted out of Jharkhand’s Ranji Trophy campaign despite not being on national duty, instead focusing on preparation for the upcoming IPL with the Mumbai Indians.
Similarly, Shreyas Iyer did not make himself available for Mumbai’s Ranji quarterfinal against Baroda, although he later joined the squad for the semifinal against Tamil Nadu.
Kapil emphasized the importance of international players supporting their respective states, highlighting the role of state associations in nurturing talent.
He expressed gratitude towards the BCCI for revising pension amounts for former cricketers, acknowledging the financial support it provides to families dependent on these pensions.
“It was high time the message was given and this strong step by the BCCI will go a long way in restoring the prestige of domestic cricket,” he added.
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