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Tag: Ranji Trophy

  • Controversy erupts over Ravi Bishnoi’s concussion substitute during Ranji Trophy semi-final clash between Gujarat and Kerala

    Controversy erupts over Ravi Bishnoi’s concussion substitute during Ranji Trophy semi-final clash between Gujarat and Kerala

    The Ranji Trophy season has truly peaked with the semi-finals clash between Gujarat and Kerala providing a scintillating domestic cricket experience for the cricketing world. The match was open ended from the very beginning. However, a fateful moment turned the tide of the encounter as Hemang Patel arrived on the crease to bat for Gujarat at No.5 as the home side were desperate to save the Test match and secure a place in the finals of the tournament. However, Patel’s arrival was not received well by Kerala players as they registered their protest to the on-field umpires.

    Kerala players visibly unhappy with the arrival of Hemang Patel on the crease

    The Kerala side was a few wickets away to script history before Patel’s arrival sparked a new on-field controversy at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The Gujarat middle-order batter was the concussion replacement for spinner Ravi Bishnoi who could not continue further in the match after a ball hit his face while fielding. Bishnoi, who recently played for India in the T20I series against England, had to leave the ground with blood oozing out of his nose.

    Kerala off-spinner Jalaj Saxena was furious with Patel substituting Bishnoi, amplifying the point that it is not a like-for-like substitute with the on-field umpire. Other teammates joined the protest from the off-spinner and echoed Saxena’s argument with the match officials.

    “Ravi Bishnoi is a bowler and he generally bats 9 or 10 for their side. And then as a concussion player, you are getting a player who bats really well and is promoted to bat number 5. I think that was unfair for us and that’s what I was telling the umpire. At least, if you have taken a batsman in place of him, make him play at number 11,” Saxena argued.

    Patel did help his side inch closer to a place in the finals by playing a 27-run knock off 41 balls which stabilized the Gujarat innings at a crucial juncture. The home side were just 29 runs behind Kerala’s 1st innings total of 457 runs at the end of Day 4 of the Test match.

    Also Watch: Sumit Kumar bowls a sharp in-swinger to send Suryakumar Yadav’s middle-stump for a walk in Ranji Trophy quarter-final

    Kerala script history by securing a place in the Ranji Trophy finals

    Despite Patel’s best efforts to sail his team through in the Ranji Trophy finals, his innings was fairly short-lived on the final day of the match. Consequently, the entire lower order of Gujarat succumbed to the pressure from a disciplined bowling effort from Kerala as they bowled out the home side on 455 runs securing a 2-run lead over Gujarat and consolidating their place in the finals, a first for the visitors in almost 74 years of their presence in the Ranji Trophy. Kerala will now face the winner of the other semi-final between Vidarbha and Mumbai on February 26.

    Also Watch: Wriddhiman Saha gets a Guard of Honour in his final Ranji Trophy match

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  • WATCH: Fans tease Rohit Sharma with Hardik…Hardik and Vadapao chants during Ranji Trophy

    WATCH: Fans tease Rohit Sharma with Hardik…Hardik and Vadapao chants during Ranji Trophy

    A video that has gone viral on social media purports to show a moment where fans of Hardik Pandya allegedly taunted Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma with chants of “Hardik…Hardik” and referred to him as “Vadapao” during a Ranji Trophy match between Mumbai and Jammu and Kashmir.

    Questions arise about authenticity in viral video targeting Rohit Sharma

    The incident, captured in the video, shows Rohit, walking through a corridor, a place where fans typically do not have access during match times, suggesting the audio might have been edited or added later. The chants and remarks heard in the video are particularly notable as they come at a time when Rohit is attempting to regain form in the domestic cricket scene ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

    Rohit stays composed amid eyebrow raising chants

    In the footage, Rohit appears to be focused and undisturbed by the off-field noise, but the nature of the chants, especially “Vadapao” – a popular Mumbai street food, seemingly used here in a derogatory context – have sparked discussions across social media platforms about fan behavior and sportsmanship.

    As of now, there is no confirmation whether this audio was indeed from the match or if it was manipulated to create a narrative. The authenticity of the video remains under scrutiny.

    Here is the video:

    Also WATCH: Abid Mushtaq plucks a one-handed screamer to dismiss Rohit Sharma in Mumbai vs J&K Ranji Trophy clash

    Rohit’s disappointing comeback in Ranji Trophy

    Notably, Rohit’s much-anticipated return to the Ranji Trophy after nearly a decade was met with disappointment on the field. The right-handed batter, looking to rediscover his form ahead of the Champions Trophy, opened the batting for Mumbai against Jammu & Kashmir. However, his performance was underwhelming; in the first innings, Rohit managed only 3 runs off 19 balls, showing a struggle to find his rhythm. His second innings was slightly better but still short of expectations, scoring 28 runs off 35 balls, before being caught out. These scores reflect a challenging comeback for Rohit, adding pressure as he aims to return to his best form in domestic cricket.

    Also READ: J&K pacer Umar Nazir Mir reveals why he refused to celebrate the prized scalp of Mumbai’s Rohit Sharma in Ranji Trophy



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  • WATCH: Shardul Thakur’s thunderous celebration after smashing a fighting century in Ranji Trophy

    WATCH: Shardul Thakur’s thunderous celebration after smashing a fighting century in Ranji Trophy

    In a display of sheer determination and skill, Mumbai’s all-rounder Shardul Thakur lit up the BKC Ground in Mumbai with a thunderous celebration after scoring a fighting century in the ongoing Ranji Trophy season. Facing Jammu & Kashmir, Shardul’s performance was nothing short of heroic, rescuing Mumbai from a precarious position and turning the match in their favor.

    Mumbai’s batting collapse and Shardul Thakur’s rescue act

    Shardul came to the crease with Mumbai in a spot of bother at 91/6, further reduced to 101/7 by the time he started his innings. The 33-year-old, known for his aggressive batting, showcased his mettle by smashing his second First-Class century off just 105 deliveries, including 15 boundaries. This knock was particularly significant as it was his first since his maiden First-Class ton in the previous Ranji Trophy semifinal against Tamil Nadu, where he had similarly bailed out Mumbai from a collapse.

    Shardul’s animated celebration after reaching the triple-figure score

    The celebration that followed was as explosive as his innings. After reaching his century with a six over long-on in the 60th over of Mumbai’s second innings, Shardul raised his arms in triumph, thumped his chest, and gestured towards the Mumbai dressing room, a moment captured and shared widely across social media platforms. His celebration was a testament to the relief and joy of overcoming adversity under pressure, reflecting the spirit of a cricketer who thrives in challenging scenarios.

    Here is the video:

    Also WATCH: 40-year-old Paras Dogra takes a one-handed screamer to dismiss Ajinkya Rahane in Ranji Trophy 2024-25

    Shardul’s heroics fuel hopes for a national comeback

    This performance comes at a time when Shardul has been out of the Indian Test and IPL teams, with his last appearance for India being in December 2023 against South Africa. His absence from the IPL 2025 auction had raised questions about his immediate cricketing future, but performances like these in domestic cricket are likely to keep him in the conversation for a national recall.

    Mumbai’s strong position at stumps on Day 2

    Mumbai, the defending champions, are now better positioned in the match, thanks to Shardul’s heroics alongside Tanush Kotian‘s resilient half-century. At stumps on Day 2, Mumbai’s score stood at 274/7, leading by 188 runs, with Shardul and Kotian unbeaten on 113 and 58, respectively.

    Also WATCH: Abid Mushtaq plucks a one-handed screamer to dismiss Rohit Sharma in Mumbai vs J&K Ranji Trophy clash



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  • Unwanted feat for Shubman Gill as Punjab records the lowest total of Ranji Trophy 2024-25 season

    Unwanted feat for Shubman Gill as Punjab records the lowest total of Ranji Trophy 2024-25 season

    In a shocking turn of events during the Ranji Trophy 2024-25, Punjab was bundled out for a mere 55 runs in their first innings against Karnataka at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Thursday, January 23. This dismal total marks Punjab’s lowest score in last 46 years, setting an unwanted record for captain Shubman Gill and his team.

    Punjab’s disastrous innings

    Punjab’s batting lineup crumbled under pressure, with only two players managing to reach double figures. Gill, who has been struggling for form, was dismissed for just 4 runs off 8 balls, caught behind off the bowling of Abhilash Shetty. His dismissal was part of a disastrous start that saw Punjab reeling at 14/4 early in their innings.The team’s collapse was swift and brutal, with Karnataka’s bowlers exploiting the conditions effectively.

    Ramandeep Singh (16) and Mayank Markande (12) displayed some resistance for Punjab, but their 18-run partnership couldn’t prevent a disappointing collapse, with the team bowled out in just 29 overs.

    Vasuki Koushik and Shetty spearheaded the Karnataka attack, claiming four and three wickets, respectively. The rest of the bowlers also played their part effectively, ensuring Punjab’s innings ended before it could gather any momentum.

    Also READ: Here’s how did Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill and others performed on the opening day of Ranji Trophy 2024-25 Sixth Round

    Lowest total in Ranji Trophy 2024/25 season

    • Punjab: 55 all-out vs Karnataka in Bengaluru
    • Services: 71 all-out vs Jammu and Kashmir in Kashmir
    • Uttarakhand: 71 all-out vs Vidarbha in Dehradun

    Lowest totals for Punjab in Ranji Trophy history

    • 42 all-out vs Haryana in 1978
    • 55 all-out vs Karnataka in 2025
    • 59 all-out vs Mumbai in 2012

    Also WATCH: Rohit Sharma’s Ranji Trophy comeback for Mumbai ends briefly with 19-ball stay against Jammu and Kashmir

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  • Mumbai announces squad for Ranji Trophy elite round, Rohit Sharma to play under Ajinkya Rahane’s captaincy

    Mumbai announces squad for Ranji Trophy elite round, Rohit Sharma to play under Ajinkya Rahane’s captaincy

    In a significant development for Mumbai cricket, Rohit Sharma, the captain of the Indian national team, is set to play under the leadership of Ajinkya Rahane in the upcoming Ranji Trophy match against Jammu and Kashmir. The match is scheduled to begin on January 23, at the MCA Sharad Pawar Cricket Academy in BKC, Mumbai. This marks Rohit’s return to domestic red-ball cricket after nearly a decade, having last played in the Ranji Trophy during the 2015 season.

    Rohit Sharma’s recent form

    Rohit Sharma’s inclusion comes at a crucial time as he seeks to regain form following a series of disappointing performances in international cricket. He has struggled with consistency in his last eight Test matches, including a lacklustre showing against Australia. With only 31 runs scored in five innings during his recent outing Down Under, the upcoming domestic match presents an opportunity for Rohit to find his rhythm ahead of future international commitments.

    Why Rohit Sharma is participating in Ranji Trophy 2024-25?

    The BCCI’s recent directive mandating that centrally contracted players participate in domestic tournaments unless facing fitness issues has played a role in Rohit’s decision to play. This initiative aims to strengthen domestic cricket and ensure that national players remain match-ready.

    Also READ: Will Ravichandran Ashwin become a selector in future? Ace spinner comes up with a cheeky answer

    Mumbai’s squad for the elite round of Ranji Trophy 2024-25

    The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA), on Monday, announced a star-studded squad for the sixth round of the Ranji Trophy, which includes notable players such as Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shreyas Iyer and Shardul Thakur. The decision to appoint Rahane as captain comes after he successfully led Mumbai to victory in the Ranji Trophy last season.

    The full squad for the match is as follows:

    Ajinkya Rahane (captain) Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ayush Mhatre, Shreyas Iyer,  Siddhesh Lad, Shivam Dube, Hardik Tamore (wicketkeeper), Akash Anand (wicketkeeper  ,Tanush Kotian, Shams Mulani, Himanshu Singh, Shardul Thakur, Mohit Awasthi, Sylvester D’Souza, Royston Dias, Karsh Kothari.

    Also READ: IND vs ENG 2025 – India’s best XI for the T20I series against England

     

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  • Virat Kohli ordered by secretary to follow Ajinkya Rahane’s footsteps and play Ranji Trophy

    Virat Kohli ordered by secretary to follow Ajinkya Rahane’s footsteps and play Ranji Trophy

    Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) secretary Ashok Sharma has confirmed that both Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant have been added to the probable squad for the final two rounds of the ongoing Ranji Trophy 2024-25.

    With the Ranji Trophy camp underway, the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) secretary has stressed that both Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant should play in the final round of the elite first-class tournament while citing the example of Mumbai players, who always play for their state team when available.

    DDCA confirms Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant named in Delhi’s probable squad for final two rounds of Ranji Trophy 2024-25

    Kohli is currently under fire for his string of poor performances, and even his place in the Test team is now under scrutiny following his dismal show in the recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, where he scored only 190 runs against Australia.

    Amidst the heavy criticism, Ashok Sharma believes that Virat Kohli should take inspiration from Mumbai players and play at least one game for Delhi in the ongoing Ranji Trophy 2024-25. The DDCA secretary also mentioned how Indian players from Delhi refused to respect domestic cricket over the years.

    Read Also: ICC Champions Trophy 2025: India squad announcement date revealed, KL Rahul ignored as Rishabh Pant’s backup finalized

    Ashok Sharma was quoted as saying by the Indian Express: “Kohli and Rishabh Pant’s names are on Delhi’s probable squad for the last two rounds of the Ranji Trophy fixture. Both Virat’s and Rishabh’s names are in the probable list. The Ranji Trophy camp is underway. Virat should take inspiration from the Mumbai cricketers and play for Delhi in domestic cricket whenever he is available.”

    I don’t think they will play even single Ranji game: Ashok Sharma

    The DDCA secretary admitted that he doesn’t see Rishabh Pant and the former Indian captain turning up for Delhi in the final round of this Ranji season. He lamented that Delhi doesn’t have a culture like Mumbai, where the international stars play Ranji games whenever they are available.

    Mr. Sharma further added, “See, in Mumbai, there has always been a culture where their Indian players turn up for Ranji matches whenever available. It is missing in the North, especially in Delhi. The BCCI has also mentioned players should participate in domestic cricket. I feel Virat and Rishabh should play at least one game, but I don’t think they will.”

    Meanwhile, the DDCA president, Rohan Jaitley, denied contacting Virat Kohli for the Ranji Trophy 2024-25 games, saying that it is the selectors and the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) who would be in touch with the player, and they are the best people to respond to such queries.

    Read Also: Virat Kohli’s retirement mentioned as he receives strict order to ‘Stop senseless on-field antics’

    Rohan Jaitely suggests Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant to play domestic cricket

    However, Rohan Jaitely said that Virat and Rishabh are both fit and available, so they must turn up for Delhi in the red-ball tournament, especially with the fact that the duo had endured a tough time on the Australia tour, where India suffered a 1-3 Test series loss earlier this month.

    Jaitely stated, “It is exceptionally important to participate in the domestic tournament. If on national duty, obviously one cannot participate, but otherwise, they should. Since the players are managed by the NCA and the national selectors, there are multiple things, based on their load management, etc. But they would keep domestic cricket on their priority list, which is exceptionally important.”

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  • Ishan Kishan poised to return to domestic cricket after consultation with BCCI, selectors

    Ishan Kishan poised to return to domestic cricket after consultation with BCCI, selectors

    Sidelined from the central contracts’ list by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for not taking part in domestic cricket, while being away from the national team, Ishan Kishan is slated to feature in the upcoming domestic season for his state team Jharkhand.

    The wicketkeeper-batter has been named among the 25 pre-season prospects by the Jharkhand State Cricket Association (JSCA) and has promised to represent them for the forthcoming calendar. Reportedly, Kishan is also in line to lead the side.

    He has been named among the 25 pre-season prospects by the Jharkhand State Cricket Association and has consented to represent the state in the forthcoming season. Additionally, he might be considered for a leadership position, according to reports by Cricbuzz.

    The complete remain vague, however, it is confirmed that Kishan has informed the state association of his availability to join the state team for the forthcoming season.

    Also Read: ‘Woh bhi thoda sa fashion mein lag gaya tha’ – Basit Ali reflects on Ishan Kishan’s exclusion from national team

    It is understood that Kishan’s decision was swayed by several well-wishers and national selectors, who supposedly guided him. They underscored that he might have to forfeit international opportunities during the peak of his career if he neglected engaging in the domestic cycle.

    While left-hand batter remains away from the Indian team for almost a year now, Shreyas Iyer, who was one of the other co-exits from the central contract, made an international comeback with the Sri Lanka tour.

    For the uninitiated, Kishan resolutely declined to play Ranji Trophy 2023-24, despite explicit directives from the national selectors and the board. He chose instead to focus exclusively on the IPL, preparing for it at an academy in Baroda. His most-recent appearance for India was in November 2023, and he has since been omitted from the national team after his departure from the Indian side in South Africa last December. 

    Kishan is likely to view this as a blessing in disguise and will be determined to make a significant impact in order to re-establish his status on the international stage.

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  • Fans react as Priyam Garg emulates Virat Kohli’s celebration after brilliant century for Uttar Pradesh in Ranji Trophy 2023-24

    Fans react as Priyam Garg emulates Virat Kohli’s celebration after brilliant century for Uttar Pradesh in Ranji Trophy 2023-24

    In a riveting clash between Uttar Pradesh and Chhattisgarh in the Ranji Trophy 2023-24, Priyam Garg‘s spectacular century not only saved the match for UP but also had fans in awe as he mirrored the celebratory style of cricketing maestro Virat Kohli.

    Sanjeet Desai and Amandeep Khare’s shine for Chhattisgarh

    The match had its fair share of twists and turns, with Chhattisgarh initially struggling at 88/4 after winning the toss and opting to bat. However, Sanjeet Desai‘s phenomenal double century turned the tide in their favour. Amandeep Khare complemented Desai’s stellar performance with an impressive 114 runs, propelling Chhattisgarh to a formidable first innings total of 414 before being dismissed. Saurabh Kumar emerged as the standout bowler for UP, showcasing his skill with a remarkable five-wicket haul.

    UP’s reply falls short in the first innings

    Uttar Pradesh’s response to Chhattisgarh’s first innings score fell short of expectations, with Saurabh Kumar, Nitish Rana, and Yash Dayal contributing with promising fifties but unable to help their team overcome the opposition’s total, finishing at 238 runs.

    Priyam Garg’s heroics in the second innings

    Chhattisgarh’s strategic declaration at 199/8 in their second innings, setting a target of 376 runs, placed the pressure squarely on UP’s shoulders. Garg, however, rose to the occasion with a scintillating knock of 114 runs off just 113 deliveries and saved UP as the match ultimately concluded in a draw. His innings, featuring thirteen fours and four sixes, showcased not only his impeccable skills but also his ability to handle pressure and play for the win, irrespective of the situation.

    Emulating the icon: Garg’s Virat Kohli-like celebration

    While Garg’s batting prowess was commendable, it was his celebration after reaching the century that stole the limelight. Emulating modern-day great Kohli’s iconic style, Garg jumped in the air, punched the atmosphere with jubilation, and kissed his locket, adding a personal touch to the celebration.

    Here’s the video:

    Also READ: The ’12th Fail’ fame actor Vikrant Massey picks his all-time favourite cricketer

    Social media erupted with praise for the young cricketer, with fans expressing their joy and admiration for Garg’s remarkable performance. The video clips and images of Garg replicating Kohli’s moves also quickly went viral, with fans lauding the youngster for his talent, maturity, and respect for the game.

    Here’s how netizens reacted:

    Also READ: Indian actress Anushka Sen reveals what relationship advice she received from MS Dhoni



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  • Ishan Kishan finally speaks out on his absence from Ranji Trophy 2024

    Ishan Kishan finally speaks out on his absence from Ranji Trophy 2024

    Ishan Kishan, the enigmatic wicketkeeper-batter, has become the focal point of speculation and intrigue due to his extended absence from the Indian cricket team. His last on-field appearance dates back to the home T20I series against Australia in November 2023. However, Kishan took a hiatus from the cricketing arena during the Test series in South Africa in December, citing personal reasons.

    Rahul Dravid’s advice

    In response to India’s head coach Rahul Dravid‘s advice to engage in competitive cricket for a resurgence in form, Kishan chose not to represent Jharkhand in the ongoing Ranji Trophy 2024. Instead, he has been spotted honing his skills alongside Mumbai Indians (MI) captain Hardik Pandya at Vadodara’s Reliance Cricket Stadium.

    Also READ: Ishan Kishan defies coach Rahul Dravid’s advice; trains with Pandya brothers for IPL 2024

    Ishan Kishan’s perspective

    Now according to the Indian Express report, Kishan is gearing up for a comeback, targeting the DY Patil T20 tournament as his return to competitive action. The left-handed batter, known for his aggressive style, seems determined to make a mark and reclaim his spot in the Indian team. The ambitious goal on Kishan’s horizon is a return to the Indian team for the T20 World Cup in 2024. With the tournament scheduled to take place in the West Indies and USA from June 1 to June 29, Kishan is looking to leave no stone unturned in his preparation.

    “He will ask for a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the board. He will be playing for the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). He wants to earn his spot in India’s T20 World Cup squad with a good outing in the IPL. It is a long road but the hunger to play cricket is back and he wants to play in all three formats,” a source stated.

    Ranji Trophy: A special connection

    While Kishan has chosen an alternate path by not participating in the Ranji Trophy, reports further claimed that the tournament holds a special place in his cricketing journey.

    “Ishan has always given priority to the Ranji Trophy. In the 2022-23 season, he was constantly travelling with the Indian cricket team but despite the hectic schedule he played a couple of Ranji Trophy games, and scored a century against Kerala, which helped him earn a place in India’s Test team. All these accusations are just rubbish,” a source concluded.

    Also READ: BCCI issues strict mandate to players after Manoj Tiwary and Irfan Pathan’s indirect criticism

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  • ‘Pujara, Rahane are still playing’ – Aakash Chopra wants ‘strong message’ for youngsters prioritising IPL over first-class cricket

    ‘Pujara, Rahane are still playing’ – Aakash Chopra wants ‘strong message’ for youngsters prioritising IPL over first-class cricket

    Renowned commentator Aakash Chopra has issued a compelling plea to the Indian selectors, as he emphasised the significance of first-class cricket participation. Notably, seasoned campaigners such as Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane continued to grace the domestic circuit, as they represented Saurashtra and Mumbai respectively. While some emerging talents have opted out of the ongoing Ranji Trophy, Pujara and Rahane’s commitment has shone through. 

    The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has purportedly mandated non-national team cricketers to participate in the forthcoming round of the premier domestic tournament. Chopra’s critique of youngsters skipping the Ranji Trophy resonates, as he urged them to emulate the dedication showcased by their senior counterparts.

    “I am hearing that a lot of youngsters are not playing. They don’t play at all because their names have already come in the IPL. People have started thinking that they would be selected if they do well in the IPL, which is not a good thing, because Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane are still playing,” Chopra said on his YouTube channel.

    Also Read: BCCI wants players to prioritise domestic tournaments ahead of IPL

    A strong message has to be sent: Aakash Chopra

    Ishan Kishan, currently absent from the ongoing Ranji Trophy, has opted for a hiatus from international cricket citing mental fatigue. He is reportedly honing his skills for IPL 2024 at Kiran More’s academy in Baroda. The former India opener emphasised the necessity of first-class cricket for national team considerations. He echoed this sentiment, and urged the selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, to uphold this standard diligently.

    “If first-class cricket is happening and if you are fit and are not part of the Indian team, go and play. If someone feels that he will return without playing, a strong message has to be sent that you will only be considered when you go and play. If you feel you will only play the IPL and play all cricket based on that, I am expecting the selection committee under Ajit Agarkar’s leadership to put that line in the sand, that it’s not going to happen. If this is being imposed, please do it even more,” he concluded.

     

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