'Nakhre nahi chalenge...': BCCI's Jay Shah's warning to Indian players amid Ishan Kishan' row
PTC Web Desk: In a noteworthy development, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah has announced that all centrally contracted cricketers are now required to actively participate in red-ball cricket at the domestic level. Jay Shah, addressing mediapersons at the renaming ceremony of the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium, underscored the management's stance against any excuses, making it obligatory for players to represent their state teams upon request from coaches or captains.
Speaking firmly on the matter, Shah clarified that this directive applies uniformly to all centrally contracted players and is not directed at any specific individual, despite recent reports surrounding Ishan Kishan. He stressed the unequivocal message: "‘Nakhre Nahi Chalenge' (no tantrums)." All contracted players have been notified through phone communication, with Jay Shah expressing intent to reinforce the message through written correspondence.
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"If the chairman of selectors, coach & captain want you to play red-ball cricket, then you gotta play. And as far as Ishan Kishan is concerned, he is young, I am not saying this specifically about him as it will be applicable for all the players uniformly," BCCI Secretary Jay Shah added.
Shah highlighted the crucial role of the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in decision-making, ensuring that all choices regarding players' participation will be made after consulting the academy. He stressed the need to consider players' physical conditions, avoiding compelling individuals to handle both white-ball and red-ball cricket if their bodies cannot accommodate the dual commitment.
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"Whoever is fit and young — we are not going to tolerate any other tantrums. This message is for all centrally contracted players," Shah stated, providing further clarity on the board's stance.
Moreover, Shah disclosed that the chairman of the selection committee would be granted autonomy to make informed decisions based on the team's requirements. This move aims to empower the selection committee to manage player participation without unnecessary interference.
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The BCCI secretary concluded by reiterating the non-negotiable nature of the directive, emphasising that every centrally contracted player must adhere to the mandate. This announcement reflects the BCCI's commitment to shaping a cohesive and disciplined approach toward players' involvement in red-ball cricket at the domestic level.
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