In a bold move, the South Zone selectors have chosen to go against the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), refusing to include several centrally contracted players in their squad for the upcoming Duleep Trophy 2025-27.
BCCI vs South Zone – What Sparked the Clash?
A few days ago, the BCCI sent out an email to all cricket associations, urging that centrally contracted players be included in their respective zonal squads for the tournament. While the message was addressed to all, it was primarily aimed at the South Zone, which had left out prominent names like KL Rahul, Washington Sundar, Mohammed Siraj, Sai Sudharsan, and Prasidh Krishna.
Instead, only Tilak Varma found a place in the squad, leading to the board’s objection.
Selectors Stand Their Ground
The South Zone selectors have defended their decision, insisting that the Duleep Trophy should be a reward for domestic performers who excel in the Ranji Trophy and other domestic circuits.
A South Zone official explained
“Kerala reached the Ranji Trophy final for the first time in 90 years and narrowly missed out on the title. Their players deserve a spot in the Duleep Trophy squad. If centrally contracted players want to be part of it, they should also play Ranji and qualify like everyone else.”
Selectors also argued that players like Rahul and Siraj could be given match practice in India A fixtures instead of replacing deserving domestic talents.
A Debate on Selection Philosophy
This decision has sparked an ongoing debate in Indian cricket. Should tournaments like the Duleep Trophy prioritize giving chances to domestic performers, or should they be used to keep India’s top players match-ready?
With the Asia Cup and other major tournaments around the corner, how the BCCI handles this standoff could shape future selection policies.
