Image Source: BCCI
[Saba Sports News] Ishan Kishan, a prominent Indian cricketer, has been at the center of controversy for skipping multiple rounds of the current Ranji Trophy season. This absence prompted the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to send a notice to centrally contracted players, emphasizing the importance of participating in domestic red-ball cricket.
The BCCI warned of strict repercussions for those neglecting the Ranji Trophy, citing a worrying trend of players prioritizing Indian Premier League (IPL) preparations over domestic competitions.
In a letter, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah expressed concern over this shift, reminding that domestic cricket is the cornerstone of Indian cricket’s success and a critical measure for national team selection. He underscored the policy that performances in domestic leagues are essential for consideration to play for India.
“There is a recent trend that has started to emerge and is a cause for concern. Some players have begun prioritising the IPL over domestic cricket, a shift that was not anticipated. Domestic cricket has always been the foundation upon which Indian cricket stands, and it has never been undervalued in our vision for the sport,” Shah wrote.
“Our vision for Indian cricket has been clear from the outset: every cricketer aspiring to play for India must prove themselves in domestic cricket. Performance in domestic cricket remains a critical yardstick for selection, and non-participation in domestic cricket will carry severe implications,” he added.
Amidst this backdrop, Ishan Kishan, seen practicing with Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya in Baroda for the upcoming IPL season, recently addressed the controversy. Reports indicate that Kishan explained to a senior figure within the Indian cricket framework his current focus on refining certain aspects of his batting, admitting his unreadiness for red-ball cricket at the moment.
Kishan’s choice to participate in the DY Patil T20 tournament instead of the Ranji Trophy has ignited further discussions about his commitment to longer-format cricket, highlighting the ongoing debate about balancing domestic responsibilities with T20 league commitments.