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'IPL Is Not Everything, We're Prioritising Test Cricket' - Ashwin Lauds BCCI's Bold Move

R Ashwin appreciated the BCCI for efforts made for Ranji Trophy and Tests [AP]R Ashwin appreciated the BCCI for efforts made for Ranji Trophy and Tests [AP]

Ravichandran Ashwin praised the BCCI for recent steps taken towards the Ranji Trophy and Test cricket and said the message from the governing body is loud and clear. The premier India off-spinner appreciated the efforts made by the board to ensure Test cricket retains its pedestal and first-class cricket remains the lifeblood of Indian cricket. 

Under secretary Jay Shah, the BCCI recently mandated the participation of all registered players in the Ranji Trophy and other Indian domestic competitions in response to the controversial absence of Ishan Kishan from Jharkhand's playing XI even as the wicketkeeper-batter was seen training for Mumbai Indians (MI) ahead of IPL 2024. 

Shah then also announced a new pay incentive structure for Test cricket, as per which cricketers playing four or more Tests in a season will be rewarded with a substantial extra sum up and beyond the existing match fees of INR 15 lakhs per day and the central contracts. 

Ashwin Lauds BCCI For Efforts Towards Test Cricket 

Ashwin, who has been a Test specialist and recently joined the Elite club of players to have played 100 Tests and achieved 500 or more Test wickets for the country, complimented the board for making sure the longest version of the game is held in regard and respect. 

"What we must understand here is the message being conveyed by the organisational body here, it said we are prioritising Test cricket, IPL is not everything as far as we are concerned," Ashwin was quoted as saying by Indian Express."They are saying Test cricket is of paramount importance, we are going to promote it and we expect people eligible to play this format. In my view, they are making all the right noises."

The BCCI is also reportedly discussing plans to further reinvigorate the pay structure for domestic players, to raise the overall sum a player can earn through the season by plying his trade in first-class and List A cricket and not be lured entirely by the IPL money.