Legendary former India captain Kapil Dev has commended the Board of Cricket Control in India (BCCI) for safeguarding the essence of domestic cricket through their recent directives aimed at centrally contracted Indian players. In a significant move, BCCI opted to exclude Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan from central contracts due to their absence from their respective state teams during the ongoing Ranji Trophy season. Notably, Iyer held a Grade B contract, while Kishan was listed under Grade C in the previous season.

Kapil Dev on Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer BCCI Central Contract ” I am very happy the Cricket board has taken the right decision. Players must play that, it’s good for the Country. Players will suffer but nothing is bigger than the country ” pic.twitter.com/53ogekl6rB

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Kapil Backs BCCI

According to statements attributed to Dev by PTI, he expressed support for BCCI’s decision, emphasizing that while a few players may face consequences, no individual is greater than the nation. Kishan’s last appearance for India was in November 2023, while Iyer featured 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 Dev.

He further extended his congratulations to BCCI for safeguarding and revitalizing the significance of domestic cricket. Despite being declared fit by the National Cricket Academy (NCA), Iyer opted against representing either India or Mumbai in subsequent matches.

“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,” Dev said.

‘Nice Way To Pay Back’

“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,” Dev added.

The skipper who led India to victory in the 1983 World Cup highlighted the Ranji Trophy as a meaningful avenue for Indian cricketers to repay their states for their support throughout their careers. Prior to announcing the retainership list, BCCI had communicated with all contracted players, underlining the importance of participating in the Ranji Trophy and other domestic tournaments to remain in contention for national selection.

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