'India need him...': BCCI on why Hardik Pandya's case is different

NEW DELHI: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (

BCCI

) is considering reforms to address concerns about the Indian Premier League (IPL) overshadowing

first-class cricket

.
The focus is on players like

Ishan Kishan

, whose hesitance to participate in first-class cricket has prompted discussions among cricket experts.

A BCCI official shed light on the matter, stating, "We can understand

Hardik Pandya

's case as his body can't take the rigors of

red-ball cricket

.

He can't withstand the workload of Test cricket and Team India needs him fit for ICC events."

The official emphasized the need to preserve Pandya's fitness for crucial ICC events, acknowledging the unique circumstances surrounding his absence from red-ball cricket.
However, concerns have been raised regarding players who prioritize personal factors over professional commitments.
"Some of the other youngsters, whenever you call them, they will cite that they are currently doing physio work. There needs to be a stop somewhere," remarked the BCCI official to PTI, underscoring the necessity of addressing such trends.

In response to these concerns, the BCCI has reportedly directed Ishan Kishan to participate in Jharkhand's upcoming

Ranji Trophy

match against Rajasthan. Kishan's frequent absence from first-class fixtures, often attributed to reasons like "travel fatigue," has drawn criticism from cricketing authorities, especially given his active involvement in training with his IPL team in Baroda.
Echoing these sentiments, a senior BCCI official highlighted the need for a stringent policy to deter players from solely focusing on the IPL.
"The decision makers in BCCI are well aware that some players don't want to play any red-ball cricket," the official stated, suggesting that mandatory participation in a set number of Ranji Trophy matches may be implemented to promote a balanced approach to player development.
The Indian team's management has expressed their disappointment with players showing reluctance to participate in Ranji Trophy matches. This highlights wider concerns about player commitment and development in domestic cricket.

(With inputs from PTI)