The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly preparing to ask India’s senior players to feature in domestic red-ball cricket ahead of the upcoming Test tour of New Zealand. Captain Shubman Gill and vice-captain KL Rahul could turn out for Punjab and Karnataka respectively in the 2026-27 Ranji Trophy, while Jasprit Bumrah could also be considered for a domestic first-class appearance.

According to The Times of India, senior players are expected to play at least one red-ball match, subject to clearance from the BCCI medical team and individual workload requirements. Players such as Akash Deep and Nitish Kumar Reddy, who have recently sustained injuries, are likely to be closely monitored by the selectors before any decision is made.

Bumrah’s workload is expected to be managed differently given the importance of maintaining his fitness. Instead of being required to play in the Ranji Trophy, the pace spearhead could be given the option of featuring in either a domestic fixture or a first-class match for India A.

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The BCCI’s renewed focus on red-ball preparation comes after India’s lack of match practice became a talking point ahead of the 2024 home Test series against New Zealand. India subsequently suffered a 0-3 series defeat, highlighting the importance of adequate preparation for demanding Test assignments.

India will face New Zealand in a two-Test series beginning November 19. The tour will carry significance for India’s World Test Championship campaign, while the team’s performances will also be closely watched under head coach Gautam Gambhir.

The emphasis on domestic cricket is not entirely new. The policy was introduced after Gambhir and then-chief selector Ajit Agarkar took charge in 2024, with players expected to represent their domestic teams whenever available.

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Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer were among the high-profile players who faced consequences after not turning out for their respective state sides. The BCCI’s latest approach once again underlines the board’s emphasis on maintaining red-ball readiness among India’s senior Test players.