The ongoing Test series between India and England has captured the attention of cricket fans in India, thanks to the high-quality and competitive skills on show. India currently lead 3-1, with the final Test set to start in Dharamsala on March 7.
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However, off the field, significant news emerged in the past week as the BCCI announced its list of centrally contracted Indian players for the 2023/24 season. In a move that raised eyebrows, batter Shreyas Iyer and wicketkeeper Ishan Kishan were not just downgraded, but left out altogether.
Kapil Dev backs BCCI decision to drop Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer from central contracts
Speculation has been rife that the reason for leaving these players out was their refusal to play domestic cricket when not on national duty, as the decision comes on the back of the BCCI warning that 'severe consequences' would be in store for those who did not prioritise the domestic game.
On Friday, Indian World Cup-winning captain Kapil Dev expressed his thoughts on the matter. He was extremely supportive of the decision, saying that the hardship endured by a few players was acceptable, as no player is above the country.
VIDEO | Here's what veteran cricketer Kapil Dev said on #BCCI's decision to drop Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer from central contract.
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) March 1, 2024
"I am so happy that the cricket board has taken a step forward for first-class cricket. The boys must play that, it's good for the country.… pic.twitter.com/64SZGeyCYn
An alternate theory emerging is that while Kishan was made an example of by the BCCI, Iyer may have simply been caught up in the situation. There is still confusion over his fitness, as he reported back pain to the Mumbai Cricket Association as his reason for skipping a Ranji Trophy match, but had been cleared by the BCCI physios the previous week.
He is, however, set to take part in Mumbai's semifinal clash against Tamil Nadu starting on March 2. Coming off a World Cup campaign in which he scored over 500 runs, Iyer will no doubt be hurting, and looking to play his way back into a contract next year.
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