The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has sent a clear message to its centrally contracted players: prioritize domestic cricket when not on international duty. This firm stance has been met with mixed reactions, but veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin strongly supports the BCCI’s decision.
BCCI Flexes Muscle: Players Dropped for skipping Ranji Trophy
The BCCI’s seriousness became evident when Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan were excluded from their annual central contracts for skipping the Ranji Trophy. Iyer missed the entire season, while Kishan opted out of a crucial quarter-final match, citing an injury later deemed non-existent by the NCA (National Cricket Academy).
This strict action serves as a warning to other players who may prioritize the lucrative Indian Premier League (IPL) over domestic red-ball cricket.
Ravichandran Ashwin: Right Call for Test Cricket
Ashwin, a stalwart of Indian Test cricket with over 100 matches and 500 wickets under his belt, applauds the BCCI’s move. He acknowledges that the decision might not please everyone, but emphasizes the message it conveys: Test cricket remains a top priority. The BCCI, according to Ashwin, is taking a strong stance to ensure players committed to the longest format are available for domestic tournaments.
Player Choice: 12 Months or 2?
Ravichandran Ashwin acknowledges the demands on players to perform across all three formats. However, he believes the BCCI’s message empowers players to make a choice. Those who aspire to a Test career must participate in domestic red-ball tournaments. Players who prioritize shorter formats like the IPL and ODIs can focus their efforts accordingly.
Balancing Act: BCCI, Players, and Cricket’s Future
The BCCI’s new policy aims to strike a balance between player well-being, workload management, and the importance of Test cricket. While some players may find it restrictive, Ashwin views it as a necessary step to ensure the health and competitiveness of Test cricket in India. Only time will tell how players and fans react to this evolving cricketing landscape.
