Why Indian Cricketers Do Not Play Ranji Trophy
Ranji Trophy is the topmost domestic first-class cricket tournament of India, and from it, most quality players for the national team emerge. Yet, most of India's leading cricketers, particularly those in the national team, rarely watch Ranji matches. A question comes forth—isn't this an important reason why Indian cricketers do not take part in Ranji Trophy actively?

There are a few very significant reasons behind this trend:

1. Packed International Schedule
India is one of the most happening cricketing countries, with matches going on almost throughout the year. The national team plays all formats Test matches, ODIs, and T20 Internationals, which leaves no time for domestic cricket.
Example:
India played 48 international matches in 2023. It is quite challenging for the players to find time for the domestic competitions.
The 2024-2025 cricket season has several ICC tournaments, bilateral series, and the Indian Premier League (IPL), which makes the schedule even tighter.
Most of the top cricketers cannot play in Ranji Trophy matches because of this.

2. Workload Management and Injuries
To avoid injuries and workload management, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the team management always suggest that the key players should take a break. Long tours and continuous matches along with traveling put enormous pressure on cricket players.

Recently, Mayank Agarwal, Shreyas Iyer, and Shivam Dube have been rested from Ranji matches due to the workload.
Fast bowlers are rarely allowed to play domestic matches in order to their chances of playing key international series by incurring injuries.
This translates to advice that players should simply not play as often in domestic matches even if they are fit.
3. The Impact of the Indian Premier League
The IPL has transformed cricket in India. For most cricketers, T20 league cricket has become a favorite since the competition launched in 2008.

The tournament provides massive financial gains, which is a big draw for the players.
Young cricketers focus more on IPL performances than Ranji Trophy to get noticed.
Some players avoid Ranji Trophy to remain fresh for the IPL season.
The influence of the IPL has been so strong that even some young talents prefer playing T20s over first-class cricket.
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4. Established Players Don't Need Ranji Trophy
Many senior players, who have played regularly in Team India, need no further proof in domestic cricket. They are all set for the national team.
Example:
Virat Kohli played only two first-class games other than Test cricket, in the last 12 years.
Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Jasprit Bumrah hardly turn up to play Ranji Trophy.
Because selection to the national team now more or less rides on their IPL and India A performances, seniors often miss Ranji games.

5. Injury Rehabilitation and Recovery
The other significant reason the cricketer misses the Ranji Trophy is due to injury recovery. International cricket is an arduous sport and requires a lot of time and rest for a player to recover after a long series.
Example:
Hardik Pandya has not played red-ball cricket since 2018 due to back issues.
Jasprit Bumrah missed Ranji Trophy while recovering from his stress fracture.
Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant focused on rehab after injuries instead of playing Ranji matches.
When players are injured, their main priority is to get fit for international cricket rather than domestic tournaments.
6. BCCI’s Policy on Domestic Cricket
The BCCI has strict policies regarding participation in domestic cricket. BCCI Secretary Jay Shah made it clear in 2023 that centrally contracted players need to play in domestic cricket when they are not on national duty.
Players who don't take their domestic matches seriously may face such selections.
The board wants young players to play in the Ranji Trophy to gain experience in red-ball cricket.
Even with these guidelines, top cricketers miss many Ranji Trophy matches as they have other commitments.

"Rohit Sharma Took the Right Step for the Team": Gambhir Praises Indian Captain

Indian cricket team captain Rohit Sharma recently garnered praise for his leadership decisions during a challenging series against Australia. Former cricketer and current coach Gautam Gambhir lauded Sharma’s selflessness after he chose to sit out the playing XI in the final Test, prioritizing the team’s success over individual contributions.

Gambhir, addressing recent speculations and criticisms, called Sharma’s decision a “bold and team-centric move.” Speaking to the media, Gambhir said, “When a captain makes a decision with the team’s best interests in mind, it reflects true leadership. Rohit Sharma has shown that the team and country come first, setting an example for others to follow.”

Gautam Gambhir - There is nothing wrong if the captain decided to stood down himself due to our of form. I think everyone should put the team first and captain Rohit Sharma did that. 🫡❤️ @ImRo45 pic.twitter.com/YNjuuwHGSH

— TEJASH 🚩 (@LoyleRohitFan) January 5, 2025

Struggles with Form and a Tough Call

Rohit Sharma’s performance in the series had been underwhelming, managing just 31 runs across five innings. Recognizing his form struggles, Sharma decided to give opportunities to in-form players in the final Test in Sydney. This move, according to Gambhir, demonstrated maturity and accountability.

“Leadership isn’t just about scoring runs; it’s about making tough decisions. By stepping aside, Rohit ensured the team had the best possible chance of competing. It’s a commendable act that shows his commitment to Indian cricket,” Gambhir added.

ALSO READ:WTC Points Table Update: India Out After Sydney Defeat, Australia to Face South Africa in Final

Gambhir on Media Rumors and Player Futures

The series loss against Australia sparked rumors about potential discord within the Indian team and raised questions about the futures of senior players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Gambhir dismissed these speculations, urging media outlets to exercise caution in their reporting.

“I’ve always believed that a good team thrives on unity, especially during tough times. Speculating about internal issues does no good for the team’s morale,” Gambhir remarked. On the future of Sharma and Kohli, he said, “Both have shown resilience and passion throughout their careers. It’s not for me to decide their future, but I believe they have the hunger to continue contributing to Indian cricket.”

The cricketing world has been no stranger to controversy, but the ongoing series against Australia has taken a sharp turn into the realm of media relations. The saga began with Virat Kohli's heated exchange with Australian journalists at Melbourne Airport, where Kohli expressed his discomfort with the media's approach towards his family's privacy. This incident set the stage for heightened scrutiny of the interactions between Indian cricket stars and the Australian press.

Ravindra Jadeja's Press Conference Conundrum

Adding fuel to the fire, the latest chapter unfolded during Ravindra Jadeja’s press conference. Scheduled to address the media about the upcoming match, the event was marred by logistical issues. Due to time constraints, Australian journalists could not pose their questions. This situation, however, was not handled with the decorum one might expect:

- Time Management: The Indian team, under pressure from tight schedules, had to cut the press conference short, leaving some Australian journalists unable to voice their queries.

- Response from Australian Media: Frustration led to what has been described as inappropriate behavior, with some journalists reportedly continuing to record the conversation even after being asked to stop by the Indian media team.

Impact on Cricket Diplomacy

This incident has broader implications for cricket diplomacy:

- Media Relations: The relationship between international cricket teams and host country media can influence how both players and the game are perceived globally.

- Cultural Sensitivities: There's a clear divide in cultural expectations regarding media interactions, privacy, and professional conduct.

- Player Welfare: With players like Kohli and Jadeja at the center of these controversies, there's an increasing focus on how media interactions can affect player morale and performance.

Steps Forward

For cricket to maintain its spirit of sportsmanship:

- Better Communication: Both teams and media must establish clearer guidelines on press conference logistics and etiquette.

- Respect for Privacy: Understanding and respecting the personal boundaries of players could mitigate such conflicts.

- Educational Efforts: Perhaps there's a role for cricket boards and media associations in educating their members on cultural nuances and professional journalism standards.

Conclusion

The recent events involving Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja with the Australian media underscore a need for a more harmonious interaction between cricket and journalism. As the series continues, all eyes will be not just on the scores but on how these high-profile sports personalities and media outlets navigate their relationship. This isn't just about winning matches; it's about preserving the integrity and the spirit of the game.

FAQs

- Why was there tension between Virat Kohli and the Australian media?

  - The tension arose primarily from Kohli's concerns about his family's privacy being invaded by the media at Melbourne Airport.

- How did the situation at Jadeja's press conference escalate?

  - The situation escalated due to time constraints leading to a lack of opportunity for Australian journalists to ask questions, resulting in perceived unprofessional conduct from some media personnel.

- What can be done to prevent such incidents in the future?

  - Improved communication, respect for personal boundaries, and education on cultural and professional expectations are key steps forward.

The final match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 at Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, Barbados, is shaping up to be a nail-biting encounter. This match is crucial for both teams, with India looking to reclaim glory and South Africa aiming for their maiden T20 World Cup title.

First over highlights

The match kicked off with Virat Kohli smashing three fours off Marco Jansen in the first over, signaling India’s aggressive intent. Kohli’s quickfire runs gave India a promising start, thrilling fans and putting pressure on the South African bowlers.

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Second over setback

However, the second over brought a significant setback for India. Keshav Maharaj dismissed Rohit Sharma, who had been instrumental in India’s previous victories. Shortly after, Rishabh Pant fell for a second-ball duck, attempting a sweep shot that resulted in a top edge caught by Quinton de Kock. This double blow severely dented India’s progress.

Early dominance by South Africa

South Africa capitalized on their early breakthroughs. Keshav Maharaj’s double-wicket over changed the dynamics of the game, putting India on the back foot. Kagiso Rabada further compounded India’s troubles by trapping Suryakumar Yadav in the fifth over with a well-placed delivery that was caught at deep backward square leg.

Rabada’s crucial wicket

Rabada’s dismissal of Suryakumar Yadav was a masterstroke. The back-of-length delivery aimed at Surya’s body forced an error, leading to an easy catch for the fielder. This wicket left India reeling and highlighted Rabada’s importance in South Africa’s bowling lineup.

Virat Kohli’s role

With India three wickets down, the onus was on Virat Kohli to stabilize the innings. Kohli’s experience and composure in such high-pressure situations made him the ideal candidate to anchor the innings.

Axar Patel’s contribution

Axar Patel, known for his all-round abilities, played a crucial role in India’s recovery. His previous performances had shown his capability to contribute significantly with both bat and ball. Patel’s calm demeanor and strategic shot selection were vital in supporting Kohli and rebuilding India’s innings.

India’s batting line-up

Despite the early loss, India has depth in its batting order. Players like Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube and Ravindra Jadeja are still to come; they are capable of scoring runs quickly and changing the course of the game. Their role will be important in the last overs.

Most wickets in the powerplay this tournament

The players with the most wickets in the powerplay this tournament are Fazalhaq Farooqi with 10 wickets, Naveen-ul-Haq with 8 wickets, Tanzim Hasan Sakib with 7 wickets, and KG Rabada with 7 wickets.

Virat Kohli, the talismanic Indian batter, rose to the occasion with a performance that resonated far beyond the cricket field. As Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) faced the Gujarat Titans in a crucial encounter, Kohli’s bat talked, silencing his critics and reaffirming his status as one of the game’s finest.

Kohli’s Response to Criticism

Amidst constant criticism and scrutiny, Virat Kohli emerged as a beacon of resilience and determination, showcasing his unwavering resolve in the face of adversity. With RCB chasing a challenging target of 201 runs, Kohli seized the opportunity to silence his detractors with a masterclass in batting brilliance. Aware of the outside noise and the skepticism surrounding his approach, Kohli approached the match with a steely resolve, determined to let his bat talk.

See Also: Netizens applaud Will Jack for his match-winning knock against GT

Kohli’s Batting Masterclass

With aggression and intent, Kohli unleashed a flurry of boundaries and sixes, racing to a scintillating half-century off just 32 deliveries. With every stroke, Kohli sent a resounding message to his critics, asserting his dominance and authority over the game. His partnership with Will Jacks further exemplified his class, as they tormented the Gujarat Titans’ bowling attack with impunity.

The Unstoppable Duo

The partnership between Kohli and Jacks proved to be the cornerstone of RCB’s victory, as they shared an unbroken stand of 166 runs for the second wicket. While Kohli unleashed his trademark aggression, Jacks showcased his explosive batting prowess, smashing 10 sixes and 5 fours en route to a remarkable century. Together, they propelled RCB to a comprehensive victory, easily dismantling the opposition.

RCB’s Victory

With Kohli and Jacks at the helm, RCB cruised to victory, reaching the target of 201 runs with 24 balls to spare. Their dominant performance secured a crucial win for RCB and served as a testament to their resilience and determination in the face of adversity.

As the IPL 2024 season unfolds, Virat Kohli, a veteran in the arena, stands on the cusp of etching his name even deeper into the annals of the league’s history. The anticipation builds as the 35-year-old maestro eyes significant milestones in the upcoming match for Bengaluru at Mumbai’s iconic Wankhede Stadium on Thursday, April 11.

Kohli’s Quest for 4000 Runs as Opener

A closer look at Kohli’s journey reveals his impending landmark; he is a mere 73 runs shy of becoming the fourth batsman to surpass 4000 runs as an opener in the IPL. His tenure at the crease has been nothing short of remarkable, boasting 3927 runs from 103 innings at an impressive average of 45.66 and a strike rate of 136.26. Notably, all eight of his IPL centuries have been scored in the role of an opener, underscoring his dominance and adaptability.

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The elite list Kohli aims to join includes Shikhar Dhawan (6362 runs), David Warner (5900 runs), and Chris Gayle (4480 runs), who currently lead as the top run-getters in the capacity of opening batters in the league.

Chasing the Sixes Milestone

The Delhi-born cricketer is also on the verge of another monumental achievement – he is just four sixes away from hitting 250 sixes in the IPL, a feat achieved by only three others so far: Chris Gayle (357 sixes), Rohit Sharma (264 sixes), and AB de Villiers (251 sixes). This testament to Kohli’s power-hitting capabilities places him in the league of the game’s most formidable hitters.

Current Form and Challenges

Kohli’s form in the ongoing edition of the IPL has been nothing short of stellar. Currently holding the Orange Cap, he has amassed 316 runs in just 5 matches, averaging an extraordinary 105.33 with a strike rate of 146.29. His innings have been a blend of consistency and brilliance, highlighted by half-centuries against Punjab and Kolkata, and a spectacular unbeaten 113 against Rajasthan at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur.

However, despite Kohli’s brilliance, the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) find themselves grappling with challenges. With only 2 points and a net run rate of -0.843, they are currently languishing at ninth in the table, having secured just one win out of five games.

The cricketing world has been abuzz with speculations regarding Virat Kohli‘s participation in the upcoming T20 World Cup. Kohli, a stalwart of Indian cricket, has been an indispensable part of the national team since his debut. Still, recent reports have cast doubt on his inclusion in the squad for the prestigious tournament.

Reports of Potential Exclusion

In a surprising turn of events, a report speculated that Kohli might be dropped from the T20 World Cup squad. This news sent shock-waves across the cricketing fraternity, as Kohli’s absence from the global event would be unprecedented, given his track record and stature in the game.

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Confirmation of Kohli’s Inclusion

Amidst the swirling rumors, a statement from BCCI chief selector, Ajit Agarkar, provided a sigh of relief to Kohli’s fans. Agarkar hailed Kohli’s fitness and emphasized his crucial role in shaping the future of Indian cricket. His endorsement reinstated faith in Kohli’s participation in the T20 World Cup.

Ajit Agarkar’s Endorsement of Kohli’s Fitness

Speaking on the SportifywithPRG podcast, Ajit Agarkar lauded Kohli’s dedication to fitness throughout his illustrious career. He emphasized that Kohli’s commitment to maintaining peak physical condition has set a benchmark for aspiring cricketers in India. Agarkar’s words underscored the pivotal role of fitness in modern cricket and highlighted Kohli’s influence on the younger generation.

“Look at Virat. He is one of those guys who has set a benchmark. 10-15 years into his career, he has only gotten fitter. And you can see the results. If someone like him sets an example, puts forward certain things than you need, certain fitness levels you need, gradually it has progressed. BCCI has been instrumental as well with all the academies that have happened. You learn a lot quicker. Boys today at 15-16 are a lot fitter than what they were and they should be now with the amount of knowledge, awareness and facilities available,” Agarkar said on the SportifywithPRG podcast.

Kohli’s Performance in the 2024 IPL

Amidst the speculation, Kohli showcased his prowess in the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) while leading the Royal Challengers Bengaluru. With stellar performances and consistent run-scoring, Kohli demonstrated his form and ability to excel on the cricketing stage.

Despite his impressive run tally, Kohli’s strike rate came under scrutiny, particularly after a comparatively slow century against Rajasthan Royals. Critics questioned his approach, reigniting the age-old debate over strike rate versus consistency in T20 cricket.

Controversy and Criticism

The controversy surrounding Kohli’s participation escalated when former cricketers Ravi Shastri and Kevin Pietersen questioned his place in the T20 World Cup squad. However, Kohli responded in typical fashion, letting his performance on the field do the talking.

Virat Kohli, the batting powerhouse of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), is set to take on Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the upcoming IPL 2024 match. This fixture not only presents an opportunity for Kohli to contribute to his team’s success but also a chance to etch his name in the record books.

Opportunity to Create History

During the match against RR, scheduled at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur, Kohli has the chance to become the first batter in the world to score 8000 runs for one team in T20s. This milestone would be a testament to Kohli’s consistency and excellence in the shortest format of the game.

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Virat Kohli’s Journey in the IPL and T20 Format

Since his IPL debut for RCB in 2008, Kohli has been a stalwart of the team’s batting lineup. With 7890 runs in 256 T20 matches, including 7466 runs in 241 IPL matches, Kohli has established himself as one of the premier batters in the world.

In addition to crossing the 8000-run mark for RCB, Kohli has the opportunity to become the first batter to score 7500 runs in the IPL. With just 34 runs needed, Kohli is poised to achieve yet another milestone in his illustrious career.

Statistical Comparison with Other IPL Players

Virat Kohli’s impact in the IPL is unparalleled, as evidenced by his impressive statistics. With 618 runs against RR in 29 matches, Kohli has a chance to surpass Shikhar Dhawan’s record and become the leading run-scorer against the Jaipur-based franchise.

Kohli’s performances not only contribute to RCB’s success on the field but also inspire millions of fans around the world. His ability to lead by example and deliver under pressure makes him a true cricketing icon.

As Kohli gears up to face RR, expectations are high for another stellar performance from the batting maestro. Fans eagerly anticipate witnessing history being made as Kohli showcases his batting prowess on the field.

The much-anticipated match 19 of IPL 2024 between Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) promises to be a thrilling encounter. The match will take place at the Sawai Mansingh International Cricket Stadium in Jaipur on Saturday, April 06, 2024. Just before the clash, the old clip of Virat Kohli is going viral.

Rajasthan Royals’ Current Performance

RR has been in stellar form in IPL 2024, winning all three matches played so far. The team will be eager to maintain their winning streak and climb to the top of the points table with another victory.

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Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s Performance in IPL 2024

RCB has had a mixed start to the tournament, winning one match and losing three. However, the team is determined to bounce back from their recent defeats and regain momentum. RR will be eyeing a fourth consecutive victory to solidify their position in the tournament. Meanwhile, RCB is determined to turn their fortunes around and secure a crucial win away from home.

Recap of the Last Meeting Between RR and RCB

In their last encounter in IPL 2023, RCB secured a comprehensive victory over RR at the same venue. The memories of that defeat will motivate RR to put up a strong performance this time around.

These two teams’ last meeting was in match 60 of IPL 2023 at this venue, where RCB posted a mammoth 171/5 courtesy of fifties from Faf du Plessis and Glenn Maxwell and trashed RR, who were all out for just 59 courtesy of a 3-fer from Wayne Parnell and good support from other bowlers and won by a massive 112 runs.’

The players of RCB were seen overjoyed in the dressing room after the marvellous victory as the former skipper Virat Kohli jokingly said that RR would have been all out for just 40 runs had he taken the ball in his hands. “If I had bowled, they would have been all out for 40,” Kohli said in the video posted by the franchise on social media.

Virat Kohli Performance in IPL 2024

Despite not making significant contributions with the bat during Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s 28-run loss to Lucknow Super Giants on Tuesday, Virat Kohli reclaimed the IPL 2024 Orange Cap. Kohli, who had temporarily slipped to second place after Riyan Parag’s unbeaten half-century against Mumbai Indians on Monday, regained the top spot by scoring 22 runs off 16 balls, bringing his total run tally to 203 runs in the IPL 2024 Orange Cap standings.

Pitch Conditions at Sawai Mansingh International Cricket Stadium

The pitch at Sawai Mansingh Stadium is known to favour both pace and spin bowlers. With its larger boundaries and historically low-scoring matches, the pitch poses a challenge for batters, making every run valuable.

Historical Statistics of Matches at the Stadium

Out of 54 matches played at the stadium, teams batting second have emerged victorious in 34 matches. Therefore, the team batting first will aim to set a challenging target of over 160 runs to put pressure on the chasing team.

Both RCB and KKR entered the match on the back of crucial victories in the tournament. RCB secured their first win against Punjab Kings, while KKR emerged victorious in a thrilling encounter against Sunrisers Hyderabad. With momentum on their side, both teams were determined to maintain their winning streak and produce a compelling performance on the field.

Kohli’s Explosive Start Against KKR

Virat Kohli, often regarded as one of the greatest cricketers of the modern era, has once again showcased his brilliance in the IPL 2024 season.

See Also: WATCH: Virat Kohli hugs Gautam Gambhir during RCB vs KKR clash

In a highly anticipated encounter against the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Kohli made a stunning impact right from the outset. He wasted no time in asserting his dominance by hitting boundaries and unleashing a vintage bottom-hand flick for a six off Mitchell Starc’s bowling. Kohli’s aggressive approach set the tone for RCB’s innings and put the opposition under pressure.

Kohli’s Consistency

Throughout the match, Kohli exhibited remarkable consistency and composure at the crease. Despite the fall of wickets at regular intervals, Kohli remained unfazed and crafted a well-constructed half-century. RCB captain Faf du Plessis fell early but the hosts managed to get off to a strong start largely thanks to Kohli. He, alongwith Cameron Green, ensured that RCB scored 61 runs in the powerplay. Kohli then cruised past a half-century for the second consecutive time this season. The partnership between the two ended on 65 off 42 balls when Green fell to Andre Russell on 31 off 21.

Virat Kohli shows exceptional class and stays unbeaten on 83 off 59 as RCB put up a target of 183 for KKR to chase at the Chinnaswamy Stadium. 

Shreyas Iyer Opts to Bowl First

KKR captain Shreyas Iyer’s decision to bowl first after winning the toss proved to be crucial in determining the course of the match. The early dismissal of Faf du Plessis by Harshit Rana provided KKR with a vital breakthrough, but RCB remained focused on achieving a formidable total on a batting-friendly pitch.

Kohli’s Milestone: Fourth on the List of Six-Hitters in IPL

In a remarkable milestone, Kohli climbed to the fourth position on the list of batters with the most sixes in IPL history. Surpassing the legendary MS Dhoni’s tally of sixes, Kohli’s achievement symbolizes his relentless pursuit of excellence and his ability to evolve as a batsman. With 237 sixes to his name, Kohli’s feat highlights his remarkable journey in the IPL and his enduring impact on the game.

Most sixes in IPL