Duleep Trophy: Gavaskar questions exclusion of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli
Several marquee international players are set to feature in the 2024/25 Duleep Trophy, India's domestic red-ball competition. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has directed the Indian cricket stars to participate in the competition, however, marquee players Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Jasprit Bumrah have been exempted. This decision was made to rest these key players ahead of a demanding 10-match Test series. However, former cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has expressed his disagreement with this move.
What are Gavaskar's concerns?
Gavaskar has voiced his concerns over the potential impact of this decision on the players' match readiness. He said, "The selectors have not picked the skipper Rohit and Kohli for the Duleep Trophy, so they will most likely go into the Bangladesh Test series without much match practice." He further explained that regular competition helps maintain high standards in sports, especially for those in their mid 30s.
BCCI's stance on player exclusion
Jay Shah, the BCCI secretary, had earlier clarified that the board did not want to risk potential injuries by having Kohli and Rohit play in the Duleep Trophy. He emphasized their crucial roles in the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh, New Zealand, and Australia. Notably, Kohli last played red-ball cricket in January this year, while Rohit Rohit's last Test appearance came in March.
Star players in Duleep Trophy
International players, including KL Rahul, Shubman Gill, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shreyas, and Ishan among others are likely to play the Duleep Trophy, "either partially or fully." All-rounder Hardik is expected to skip the tournament as he does not feature in red-ball cricket anymore. Mohammed Shami, who continues with his post-surgery rehabilitation, might also miss the tournament. The Duleep Trophy, India's red-ball competition, will be held in a league format, starting September 5.
India's grueling Test season
Besides, India are set host Bangladesh for two Tests, with the series opener commencing on September 19 in Chennai. Kanpur will host the 2nd Test from September 27. New Zealand will visit India thereafter for a three-match Test series in October. India will then emark on their trip Down Under, where they take on hosts Australia in the Border-Gavaskar series.
