The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly dissatisfied with certain players’ reluctance to participate in the Ranji Trophy. While players like Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane have been striving to make a comeback to the Indian team, others have chosen to skip First Class cricket despite being sidelined. The board is displeased with those opting out of the Ranji Trophy and is considering communicating this dissatisfaction to the players.
According to a Times of India report, the BCCI intends to urge players to represent their state teams in the Ranji Trophy if they are physically fit. Those who are unfit are expected to undergo rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru.
According to a source, “In the next few days, all the players will be communicated by the BCCI to play for their state team in the Ranji Trophy, as long as they are not on national duty, with only those who are unfit and recovering at the NCA being granted an exemption. The Board isn’t too happy with certain players already in IPL mode from January.”
The BCCI is not happy with some certain players who are already in IPL mode from January, leaving Ranji Trophy aside. (TOI). pic.twitter.com/OGwEE9BG2T
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) February 12, 2024
One such player drawing criticism for not playing in the Ranji Trophy is wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan. Ishan took a break for mental well-being during India’s tour of South Africa and has not returned to the national setup since. Despite coach Rahul Dravid’s recommendation to “play some cricket,” Ishan has been absent from the Ranji Trophy, opting instead to train with his Indian Premier League captain Hardik Pandya.
The BCCI is reportedly displeased with some players being in “IPL mode” since January, especially with an ongoing Test series against England.
In Ishan’s absence, players like KS Bharat and Dhruv Jurel have been vying for the wicketkeeper-batter spot.
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