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'Have to Play Domestic Cricket' - Rohit Sharma's Ultimatum to Players Prioritising IPL

Rohit was firm in his stance about the importance of domestic cricket (X)Rohit was firm in his stance about the importance of domestic cricket (X)

In a recent episode that highlighted the tension between franchise leagues and national commitments in Indian cricket, Indian captain Rohit Sharma pointed out the paramount importance of domestic cricket for players aspiring to secure their spots in the national team.


Rohit reflects on the importance of domestic cricket

This assertion comes in the backdrop of ongoing debates over players prioritising the Indian Premier League (IPL) over domestic competitions, a trend that prompted Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Jay Shah, to issue a stern warning to all centrally-contracted players.

Rohit Sharma's statements were made ahead of the fifth and concluding Test against England, highlighting a growing concern within the Indian cricket establishment about several top players' neglect of domestic cricket. 

He stressed that all cricketers, when not sidelined due to medical advice, must participate in domestic cricket, which he described as the foundation of the sport in the country. This principle, according to Rohit, applies universally, without exception.

“When players are available, they have to play domestic cricket unless they have some directive from medical team. It is not for few cricketers but for every cricketer. Important we give importance to domestic cricket which is core of Indian cricket,” said Rohit.

It is worth mentioning that the issue gained prominence earlier in the month when Jay Shah observed a worrying trend among Indian cricketers over the past few years, with some, including Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan, opting out of the ongoing Ranji Trophy season to prepare for the upcoming IPL.

Rohit's intervention reiterated the BCCI's stance that Test cricket opportunities will be reserved for those who demonstrate a genuine commitment to the format and domestic cricket. 

This emphasis on the importance of domestic cricket reflects the Indian leadership's broader strategy to nurture a deep pool of talent for the national team to ensure that the pathway to international cricket remains anchored in solid performances at the domestic level.