In a bold move, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has terminated the central contracts of young talents Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer due to their reported reluctance to participate in domestic cricket matches. Former Indian captain Kapil Dev has lauded this strict stance, emphasizing the importance of players engaging in first-class games for the benefit of the nation.
Kapil Dev’s Commendation
Kapil Dev, the iconic skipper of the 1983 World Cup-winning team, expressed his satisfaction with the BCCI’s decision, stating, “I am so happy that the cricket board has taken a step forward for first-class cricket. The boys must play that, it’s good for the country.” Dev acknowledged that while some players might face difficulties, prioritizing the country’s interests was paramount. He concluded, “Kuch ko takleef hogi, hone do, lekin desh se badhkar koi nahi hai. Well done.”
Absentees from Central Contracts
Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan found themselves excluded from the central contract list released by the BCCI on February 28. Both players were categorized in Grade B and Grade C, respectively, in the previous year. This move underscores the board’s commitment to enforcing participation in first-class cricket.
Madan Lal Supports BCCI’s Directive
Madan Lal, a teammate of Kapil Dev during the 1983 World Cup, echoed similar sentiments. He emphasized that players should adhere to the BCCI’s directives, particularly regarding first-class cricket. Lal criticized those who take domestic cricket lightly, stating, “No one is bigger than the game.” He applauded the BCCI’s decision to make first-class cricket mandatory, believing it sets a crucial precedent for all players.
BCCI’s Rule Creates Ripples
The cricketing world is abuzz with discussions about the implications of the BCCI’s stringent rule. The move aims to curb the trend of players neglecting first-class cricket in favor of lucrative tournaments like the IPL. Lal emphasized the necessity of following the rules, asserting that actions taken by the BCCI will serve as an example for others in the cricketing fraternity.
Players in Action
While facing the consequences of their exclusion, Shreyas Iyer has been named in Mumbai’s squad for the Ranji Trophy 2024 semifinal against Tamil Nadu. On the other hand, Ishan Kishan has returned to action in the ongoing DY Patil T20 Cup in Mumbai. Both players now have the opportunity to prove their commitment to the game and potentially regain their central contracts through stellar performances in these domestic competitions.
In conclusion, the BCCI’s decision to terminate central contracts serves as a wake-up call for players prioritizing short-format leagues over traditional cricket. The cricketing fraternity awaits the response from other players and observes how this bold move will reshape the dynamics of Indian cricket in the long run.
You can also check out Shreyas Iyer Joins Mumbai’s Squad for Ranji Trophy 2024 Semifinal.
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