BCCI makes domestic participation mandatory for national team selection

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has made it mandatory for all players to participate in domestic matches to remain eligible for national team selection and central contracts. This move aims to keep players connected to the domestic cricket system, ensuring they contribute to talent development, maintain match fitness, and strengthen the overall structure of domestic cricket.

As per a BCCI policy document accessed by India Today, players are expected to compete in tournaments like the Ranji Trophy, Vijay Hazare Trophy, and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. By playing in these competitions, senior players can inspire young cricketers, offering them the chance to play alongside some of the best in the country and fostering the continuity of talent. Exceptions to the rule will only be granted in extraordinary circumstances, with formal approval from the Chairman of the Selection Committee, ensuring fairness and transparency in the process.

This renewed focus on domestic cricket follows mounting criticism after India's back-to-back series losses to New Zealand and



Australia. Many have called for senior players, including Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, to participate in the Ranji Trophy to regain their red-ball form. These calls intensified after India’s loss to Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where both batters struggled for consistency. Rohit also opted to sit out the final Test in Sydney.

Rohit Sharma has since been spotted attending Mumbai’s practice sessions ahead of the Ranji Trophy resumption on January 23, signaling a potential return to domestic cricket. However, Virat Kohli has yet to announce any plans to rejoin Delhi’s squad.

Meanwhile, players like Rishabh Pant, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Shubman Gill have confirmed their availability for upcoming domestic fixtures, showing a growing recognition of domestic cricket’s value among India’s established and emerging stars.

By mandating domestic cricket participation, the BCCI hopes to close the gap between domestic and international formats, creating a strong talent pipeline and ensuring India’s continued dominance in world cricket.