• Home
  • Cricket News
  • Why Yuzvendra Chahal Has Been Ignored From Bcci Central Contracts

Why Yuzvendra Chahal Has Been Ignored From BCCI Central Contracts?

Yuzvendra Chahal in Indian colours (X.com)Yuzvendra Chahal in Indian colours (X.com)

Yuzvendra Chahal's exclusion from the BCCI's central contracts for the 2023-24 season sent shockwaves through the cricketing world. The leg-spinner, known for his bamboozling deliveries and charismatic personality, has been a mainstay in India's white-ball setup for years. 

While the BCCI hasn't officially commented on the specific reasons behind his omission, several factors likely played a role:

1. Recent Form Slump: 

Chahal's performance, particularly in T20I cricket, has dipped in recent times. In 2023, he only managed to pick up 9 wickets in 9 matches, with an economy rate of 8.72, with his best bowling figure being 2/19 vs West Indies .

This decline in wicket-taking prowess and increasing economy rate might have raised concerns within the selection committee about his immediate effectiveness.

2. Age and Emergence of Young Spinners: 

At 32 years old, Chahal is approaching the latter stages of his career. The BCCI, as with any national board, constantly looks to the future and invests in young talent. 

The emergence of young and promising leg-spinners like Ravi Bishnoi and Rahul Chahar, who impressed with their performances in the domestic circuit and the IPL, could have influenced the decision. The BCCI might be prioritizing grooming these youngsters for the future, potentially leading to a strategic shift in their spin bowling plans.


3. Squad Composition and Specific Needs: 

Cricket is a game of strategy, and team composition plays a crucial role in achieving success. The BCCI selection committee might have determined that Chahal's skillset doesn't perfectly align with the immediate requirements of the team across formats. 

Different formats demand different types of spinners, and the committee might be focusing on spinners with specific skill sets, like variations in pace or deliveries conducive to specific playing conditions, for upcoming series or tournaments. 

For example, a team playing on turning pitches might prioritize a spinner with sharp turn and control, while facing a strong batting lineup might call for a bowler with variations in pace and deception.

4. Central Contracts and Selection: 

It's crucial to understand that being excluded from the central contracts doesn't necessarily signify the end of Chahal's international career. The central contracts primarily offer financial security and recognition to contracted players. 

However, selection for the national team is based primarily on current form and performance in domestic or other tournaments. Chahal still has the opportunity to prove his worth and earn his place back in the team.

Chahal's omission from the central contracts highlights the complexities involved in team selection and the constant evaluation process in international cricket. 

While his recent form dip and the emergence of young talent might have played a role, the BCCI's decision likely involves a combination of factors, including specific team needs and strategic planning for the future.

Chahal's talent and experience are undeniable, and he remains a valuable asset for Indian cricket. His ability to bounce back and regain his form will be crucial in determining his future prospects in the national team.