One cannot prioritise the IPL over domestic tournaments such as the Ranji Trophy and Dilup Trophy. Should the Indian Premier League (IPL) be given precedence over domestic cricket, it will adversely affect the cricketers and the Board of Cricket in India (BCCI).
Secretary Jai Shah has issued a letter cautioning domestic cricketers under BCCI’s central contract. He cautioned the cricketers, emphasising that domestic cricket is the foundation of the Indian national squad. It must be noticed and appreciated.
The news outlet Cricinfo has received Jai Shah’s letter. He expressed his pride in the remarkable achievements of the IPL in global cricket over the past few years. He also remarked that domestic cricket is paramount.
He stated that several cricketers favour the IPL over domestic cricket, noting a growing trend. This is quite concerning. Domestic cricket has always been and continues to be the foundation of Indian cricket. It cannot be underestimated. Domestic cricket serves as a pathway for the Indian national team. Our objective towards Indian cricket is evident. To be selected for the national team, one must demonstrate their skills in domestic cricket. Abstaining from domestic cricket will significantly affect the team.
Indian national team cricketers Ishan Kishan, Deepak Chahar, and Shreyas Iyer recently opted to skip domestic cricket, disregarding the board’s expectations. Kishan has also requested time off from the national team. Deepak has been removed from their board, even though he was included in the core contract. There are allegations that cricketers under central contracts for domestic cricket disregard their domestic cricket responsibilities due to their focus on preparing for the IPL. Jai Shah mentioned the board’s strong position.