Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has issued a sharp message for cricketers Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) axed them from the central contracts for the 2023-24 season. The two out-of-favour batters were shown the exit door by the BCCI for ignoring the directive to feature in the Ranji Trophy.
“In the game of cricket, comebacks define the spirit. Chin-up, @ShreyasIyer15 and @ishankishan51! Dig deep, face challenges, and come back even stronger. Your past achievements speak volumes, and I have no doubt you’ll conquer once again,” said Shastri, emphasizing the importance of resilience in cricket.
Shastri praised board secretary Jay Shah for the move and saluted the BCCI for introducing ‘fast bowling’ contracts for the first time. The selected fast bowlers include Akash Deep, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Umran Malik, Yash Dayal, and Vidwath Kaverappa.
“Big applause to @BCCI and @JayShah for the game-changing move with ‘fast bowling’ contracts. A crucial step in gearing up for Down Under later this year. The emphasis on Test Cricket and Domestic Cricket is a powerful message, setting the right tone for the future of our beloved sport!” Shastri added, highlighting the significance of the move for Indian cricket’s future.
Shreyas Iyer is set to lead Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the 2024 IPL edition. He was India’s standout performer at the ICC World Cup 2023 but lost his Grade B contract after being released from India’s Test squad for the England series.
On the other hand, Ishan Kishan, who received a Grade C contract last year, was given a personal break from the BCCI during India’s tour of South Africa. Despite not playing for Jharkhand throughout the Ranji season, Kishan participated in the DY Patil T20 Cup in Mumbai. He last played for India in November last year.
The BCCI’s advisory ahead of the 5th Test against England emphasized the importance of representing domestic teams when not on national duty. The statement clarified that Iyer and Kishan were not considered for annual contracts due to their non-participation in domestic cricket, as recommended by the board.
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