Cricket legend Kapil Dev has commended the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for its decisive actions in safeguarding domestic cricket through recent directives impacting centrally contracted Indian players. In a significant move, BCCI dropped Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan from central contracts after their absence from their state teams in the ongoing Ranji Trophy season. Iyer held a Grade B contract, and Kishan was on the Grade C list in the previous season.
Kapil Dev, speaking to PTI, expressed support for BCCI’s decision, emphasizing that while a few players may face consequences, no individual is bigger than the country. Kishan’s last appearance for India was in November 2023, while Iyer played in the national side’s second Test against England in Vizag.
“Yes, few players will suffer, kuch logon ko taqleef hogi, hone do lekin desh se badhkar koi nahi hai (some people will feel hurt but let it be because nobody is bigger than the country). Well done,” said Kapil Dev.
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He went on to congratulate BCCI for taking a necessary step to protect the status of domestic cricket. Despite being declared fit by the National Cricket Academy (NCA), Iyer chose not to play for either India or Mumbai in the subsequent week.
Additionally, athletes who meet the criteria of playing a minimum of 3 Tests or 8 ODIs or 10 T20Is within the specified period will automatically be included in Grade C on a pro-rata basis.
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“I congratulate the BCCI for taking the much-needed step to protect the status of domestic cricket. I was sad to see domestic cricket being given the skip by players once they had established themselves in international cricket. It was high time the message was given, and this strong step by the BCCI will go a long way in restoring the prestige of domestic cricket,” Kapil Dev added.
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The 1983 World Cup-winning captain emphasized that playing in the Ranji Trophy is a meaningful way for Indian cricketers to acknowledge and repay their states for the support provided throughout their careers. Before announcing the retainership list, BCCI had communicated to all contracted players, stressing the importance of participating in the Ranji Trophy and other domestic competitions to stay in contention for national selection.
“I have always believed in the process of international players making themselves available to play for their respective states. It helps them extend their support to domestic players. Also, it is a nice way to pay back for the services rendered by the state association in grooming a player,” said Kapil Dev.
