A significant highlight from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) release on Thursday, unveiling the squads for the six-match white-ball series in Sri Lanka, was the unequivocal statement on players’ participation in domestic cricket. “The BCCI will continue to monitor player availability and participation in the upcoming domestic cricket season, 2024-25,” the statement declared. This directive, likely influenced by Gautam Gambhir, underscores a significant shift in strategy: a renewed emphasis on international players participating in domestic matches starting next season.
The BCCI’s call for international players to take domestic cricket seriously is not unprecedented. The stringent actions against Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan for missing Ranji matches last season exemplify this stance. However, with Gautam Gambhir at the helm as head coach, this approach has intensified. The BCCI, alongside selectors, will closely watch players during non-international periods and throughout domestic competitions. Starting September 5, the new domestic season kicks off with the four-team Duleep Trophy, and it’s plausible that some international stars will feature in these matches.
Gambhir, known for his outspoken nature, has long advocated for players’ simultaneous participation across formats. He remarked recently, “I’m a very strong believer in one thing, that if you’re good, you should be playing all the three formats. Injuries are part of a sportsman’s life. If you get injured, recover and get back to playing. It’s that simple.”
He further added, “Professional cricketers have a limited playing span for their country, and they should maximize this period by playing in all formats. I don’t support the notion of earmarking players for specific formats or managing their workload excessively.”
This viewpoint was echoed in the recent selection committee meeting, where Gambhir’s influence was palpable. Hardik Pandya, for instance, is believed to have been stripped of his T20I captaincy due to his intention to skip the ODI leg of the Sri Lanka series.
. Both chief selector Ajit Agarkar and Gambhir reportedly emphasized the necessity of being available for all formats. While close associates suggest Pandya sought a break for personal reasons – he announced a separation from his wife the same evening – the message from the selectors and coach was clear.
In alignment with Gambhir’s philosophy, senior players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have committed to playing the ODIs in Sri Lanka. With only six ODIs remaining before the Champions Trophy – three against Sri Lanka next month and another three against England next year – their participation is deemed crucial. Rohit’s availability was almost certain for a few days, but Kohli’s recent agreement to play indicates a possible change influenced by this new directive.
Interestingly, Kohli, despite his tumultuous history with Gambhir – often highlighted by on-field confrontations during IPL matches – has expressed his comfort in working with the new coach. Post the World Cup final in Barbados, Kohli reportedly conveyed to the BCCI officials that past disagreements with Gambhir wouldn’t affect their professional relationship within the team. Emphasizing a common goal of the national interest, both Delhi natives are ready to set aside previous differences.
Adding to the complexity of player management, it was decided that star fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah will be rested, reflecting a selective approach to workload management amidst the broader push for participation.
The push for intensified domestic involvement also extends beyond player availability. The upcoming domestic season features matches that traditionally wouldn’t involve top international players, yet, this season might see a shift. The BCCI and selectors are displaying a concerted effort to make domestic cricket more competitive and relevant by integrating internationally experienced players.
Thus, as Gambhir takes charge, the cricketing landscape in India is set for a transformation. The increased scrutiny and expectations from international players to contribute domestically signify an era where domestic cricket might regain its importance and prestige. This approach not only ensures a stronger, more competitive domestic circuit but also promises to keep the players in prime form across all formats. The next few months will reveal how strictly this new directive is enforced and how players adapt to this evolving cricketing philosophy.