Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer may face tough times in T20 World Cup

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided to exclude Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer from the annual player contracts for Team India (Senior Men) for the upcoming season, stretching from October 1st, 2023, to September 30th, 2024.

This unexpected move comes as a strong message from the BCCI, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing domestic cricket. They said, “Please note that Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan were not considered for the annual contracts in this round of recommendations.”

BCCI’s contract exclusion signals wake-up call

Despite their regular appearances in the Indian cricket team recently, the exclusion of Kishan and Iyer from the contracts list indicates a significant setback for their chances in the 2024 T20 World Cup, as reported.

It stated, “Ishan was granted a break that he sought. But he hasn’t reported to the NCA or the state unit, but continues to train alone. Under the circumstances, there was no chance for the BCCI to offer a central contract. Similarly with Shreyas, we went by the medical reports. The door is still open for them provided they play domestic cricket regularly.”

Domestic cricket is crucial according to BCCI

Both Kishan and Iyer hold key roles in their respective IPL teams, with Iyer expected to lead the Kolkata Knight Riders and Kishan set to play for the Mumbai Indians. However, the report highlights that their potential selection for the national team hinges on their participation in domestic cricket.

The BCCI added, “The BCCI has recommended that all athletes give precedence to participating in domestic cricket during periods when they are not representing the national team.”

“Mr Ishan Kishan has requested the BCCI to be released from the upcoming Test series against South Africa citing personal reasons. The wicket-keeper has subsequently been withdrawn from the Test squad.”

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According to sources familiar with the matter, Kishan’s absence from his state team Jharkhand’s Ranji Trophy matches, despite a break granted by the BCCI, has raised concerns. Similarly, Iyer’s exclusion is attributed to medical reports, with the door left open for their return if they commit to regular participation in domestic cricket.

While the BCCI has not provided an official reason for dropping Kishan and Iyer from the contracts list, hints suggest that their absence from domestic cricket played a significant role. Despite advice from Indian cricket team coach Rahul Dravid to engage in competitive cricket to regain their spots, Kishan opted to return only recently, participating in the DY Patil T20 Cup on Tuesday.