Explained: Why Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer were left out of BCCI central contract?

Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan find themselves excluded from the BCCI's annual retainers due to their recent absence from national duties. Kishan, who took a hiatus for personal reasons during the South Africa tour, made his return only this week at the DY Patil T20 tournament. Meanwhile, Iyer, though cleared fit by the NCA before the ongoing Test series, remained absent from both national and domestic duties.

The BCCI's decision comes in the wake of a stern letter from Secretary Jay Shah, urging players to prioritise national commitments over the IPL and domestic tournaments. The letter highlighted the potential “severe implications” of neglecting national duties. Notably, the BCCI's contract announcement release concluded with a noteworthy recommendation for all athletes to prioritise domestic cricket during breaks from national team duties.

Also Read: What perks will Iyer and Kishan miss out after being removed from BCCI Contract?

India's skipper Rohit Sharma also emphasised the significance of Test cricket during a press conference following the Ranchi Test, stating that players demonstrating “hunger” for the format would receive priority in selection. Sharma acknowledged the demanding nature of Test cricket, asserting the need for players to exhibit the requisite desire. Reflecting on Kishan's absence from the Test squad against England, head coach Rahul Dravid had clarified that Kishan had not made himself available and would need to engage in domestic cricket to be considered for a return.

Iyer, Kishan in dire need of a serious revamp

Sources reveal that selectors, responsible for contract recommendations, expressed discontent with Kishan's decision to train with IPL teammate Hardik Pandya in Baroda during his break and Iyer's involvement in Kolkata Knight Riders' pre-season camp while missing a Mumbai match. Iyer, however, has now made himself available for Mumbai's Ranji Trophy semi-final encounter. Selectors found these actions concerning, hinting at a need for players to prioritise national and domestic commitments over other engagements.

“The selectors don't doubt their ability. But if the NCA is saying you are fit, and you are not making yourself available for the Test series, how can the BCCI offer you a contract? After the IPL, if they happen to get selected and fulfil the criteria of the number of matches required for a pro rata contract, they will be awarded a contract,” a BCCI official said as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

 Also Read: BCCI announce central contracts for 2023-24 season, Iyer-Kishan face the axe