Despite their impressive performances in limited-overs cricket for the national team, Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan found themselves omitted from the BCCI’s central contracts. The decision came in the wake of the duo choosing to skip Ranji Trophy matches, a move that defied the board’s explicit directives regarding their mandatory participation.
Responding to this development, former Indian coach Ravi Shastri shared an encouraging message for Iyer and Kishan. Shastri emphasized the essence of comebacks in cricket, urging the players to confront challenges and return stronger to international cricket. He expressed confidence in their ability to overcome setbacks, citing their past achievements as a testament to their capabilities.
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“In the game of cricket, comebacks define the spirit. Chin-up, @ShreyasIyer15 and @ishankishan51! Dig deep, face challenges, and come back even stronger. Your past achievements speak volumes, and I have no doubt you’ll conquer once again,” tweeted Ravi Shastri after the BCCI released the list of players with central contracts.
In the game of cricket, comebacks define the spirit. Chin-up, @ShreyasIyer15 and @ishankishan51! Dig deep, face challenges, and come back even stronger. Your past achievements speak volumes, and I have no doubt you’ll conquer once again.
— Ravi Shastri (@RaviShastriOfc) February 28, 2024
Ishan Kishan, who opted out of Jharkhand’s Ranji Trophy campaign citing mental fatigue, has been actively practicing with Mumbai Indians skipper Hardik Pandya ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Meanwhile, Shreyas Iyer, excluded from the Indian team after the second Test against England, made himself available for the Ranji Trophy semi-finals starting on March 2, citing a previously undisclosed injury.
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Ravi Shastri also commended the BCCI’s decision to introduce ‘fast bowling’ contracts, recognizing the importance of Test and domestic cricket. He lauded the board for taking a strategic step that aligns with the future direction of the sport. The fast bowling contracts were awarded to Akash Deep, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Umran Malik, Yash Dayal, and Vidwath Kaverappa.
“Big applause to @BCCI and @JayShah for the game-changing move with ‘fast bowling’ contracts. A crucial step in gearing up for Down Under later this year. The emphasis on Test Cricket and Domestic Cricket is a powerful message, setting the right tone for the future of our beloved sport,” Ravi Shastri wrote.
Big applause to @BCCI and @JayShah for the game-changing move with ‘fast bowling’ contracts. A crucial step in gearing up for Down Under later this year. The emphasis on Test Cricket and Domestic Cricket is a powerful message, setting the right tone for the future of our beloved…
— Ravi Shastri (@RaviShastriOfc) February 28, 2024
