BCCI official reveals reason behind no Ranji Trophy mandate for Hardik Pandya

In recent discussions surrounding Indian cricket, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has been emphasizing the importance of Ranji Trophy participation for certain players. However, amidst this push, there remains an exemption for Hardik Pandya, prompting questions about the reason behind it.

The move towards mandating Ranji Trophy participation gained attention following the Ishan Kishan incident, where the wicketkeeper-batter opted for personal training over representing his state team, Jharkhand. BCCI aims to ensure players like Ishan, Krunal Pandya, and Deepak Chahar prioritize red-ball cricket. Yet, Hardik Pandya stands apart, continuing with personal training regimes.

No Ranji Trophy mandate for Hardik Pandya

Addressing queries regarding this exception, a BCCI source while talking to the Times of India shed light on Hardik’s injury history and the strain that red-ball cricket imposes on his body. “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 explained the necessity of keeping him fit for ICC events.

Hardik last featured in a Test match for India during India’s tour of England in 2018. His last appearance in the Ranji Trophy was in the same year when he played a match against Mumbai, claiming seven wickets and scoring 73 runs in the match.

BCCI’s frustration with players favoring the Indian Premier League (IPL) over red-ball cricket is notable. Discussions are underway to potentially mandate participation in 3-4 Ranji Trophy matches for IPL eligibility. “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 a BCCI official.

“The decision-makers in BCCI are well aware that some players don’t want to play any red-ball cricket,” the official further said.

Acknowledging that some players prioritize T20 cricket over the traditional format, the BCCI remains vigilant to prevent IPL dominance from overshadowing the significance of domestic tournaments like the Ranji Trophy. While IPL has served as a launchpad for several cricketers into the national team, the BCCI aims to preserve red-ball cricket.

Also read: Hardik Pandya joins Amit Shah to inaugurate Gandhinagar Premier League