(Source X)
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) remains steadfast in its commitment to prioritize domestic red-ball cricket, according to reports from PTI. It has been indicated that the BCCI has directed Test specialists to participate in the Duleep Trophy ahead of the upcoming Bangladesh Tests.
Earlier during the England Test series at home, BCCI secretary Jay Shah emphasized the importance of national players, including star cricketers, engaging in domestic competitions during their free periods from international commitments.
However, exceptions are being made this time around for certain players. Reports suggest that while Test specialists are slated to participate in the Duleep Trophy, notable figures like captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah have been granted a period of rest by the BCCI.
A source close to the BCCI disclosed that the national selection committee will determine the teams for the Duleep Trophy, with current Indian team members expected to be included. Regarding the availability of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Jasprit Bumrah, the source clarified that it ultimately depends on the players’ own decisions and priorities.
“This time there is no zonal selection committee for the Duleep Trophy. Only the national selection committee will pick Duleep teams. All Test team contenders will be picked. For Rohit, Virat, and Bumrah, it will be their choice if they want to play or not.”
Additionally, reports have indicated that all-rounder Hardik Pandya will take charge of Team India during the upcoming three-match T20I series against the Sri Lanka National Cricket Team. However, it has been noted that due to personal reasons, the star player has requested to be rested from the ODIs scheduled for August.
Addressing this development, the source confirmed that Hardik Pandya is in top physical condition and is set to lead the team in the T20Is. The source further added:
“Hardik Pandya was India’s T2O vice-captain under Rohit Sharma. He is completely fit and available for the three-match T20I series and will lead the side. The break from ODIs is for very personal reasons. Hardik doesn’t have any fitness issues as is being floated in the media.”
KL Rahul and Shubman Gill are potential candidates to captain India in the upcoming ODI series against Sri Lanka.
In addition to the aforementioned updates, it has been reported that KL Rahul, alongside Shubman Gill, is being considered for the captaincy role in the upcoming ODIs. Rahul previously led the team during India’s last ODI series against South Africa, while Gill recently captained in T20Is against Zimbabwe.
India is scheduled to play three T20Is and three ODIs during their tour to Sri Lanka. The T20I series against Sri Lanka is set to take place from July 27 to 30 in Pallekele, followed by the ODIs scheduled from August 2 to 7 in Colombo. The squad for this series is expected to be announced within the next few days. This series also marks Gautam Gambhir’s debut as the coach of the team.
