'The build-up to Border-Gavaskar is at exactly the same time' - Rahul Dravid not prepared to release Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli for Ranji Trophy

While the ODI team gears up for India's third and final match of the series against the Kiwis on Tuesday, January 24, the Indian head coach Rahul Dravid has clarified his stance on releasing players for the ongoing Ranji Trophy. He confirmed that Indian skipper Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will not be taking part for their domestic teams as it could hamper their preparations for the much-anticipated series against Australia.

Several ex-cricketers and experts reckoned that both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli should participate in the Ranji Trophy matches since they were rested from the T20I series against the Kiwis. The suggestion was made so that the senior cricketers could maintain their fitness and rhythm ahead of the Border-Gavskar Trophy. 

However, former Indian skipper and current head coach Rahul Dravid revealed that the senior cricketers will remain in the Indian camp since the Ranji Trophy quarter-finals will clash with the build-up to the Australia series. 

“We would really like that the boys are able to play but it is a tough one for us. I think the quarters are on 31st or 1st and the build-up to Border-Gavaskar is at exactly the same time," Dravid told the press ahead of the third and final ODI against New Zealand.

In the build-up to a big tournament like that, we won’t be able to release any players: Dravid

The Indian head coach further added that the management is open to releasing players who will not be part of the starting eleven for the semi-finals or final of the Ranji Trophy. He also revealed that the selectors are refraining from picking players who are participating in the quarterfinals of the premier domestic competition.

“Obviously, in the build-up to a big tournament like that, we won’t be able to release any players, but when the series starts, and an opportunity presents itself where someone is not playing and is required in the semifinal or final then we will certainly look at it. We have already agreed that the selectors will not be touching anyone playing in the quarterfinal of the Ranji Trophy," he added.

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