‘Dig deep, face challenges, and come back stronger’ - Ravi Shastri’s strong message to Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan after contract snub

Despite doing well for the national team in limited-overs cricket, Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan have faced the wrath of BCCI as both cricketers have been dropped from their central contracts by the BCCI. The decision was made after the duo skipped Ranji Trophy matches, despite the board's clear directives, which explicitly mandated their participation. 

Soon after that, former Indian coach Ravi Shastri delivered a reassuring message to Iyer and Kishan. Shastri advised the cricketers to delve deep, confront challenges, and emerge stronger in international cricket. He highlighted that comebacks embody the essence of the game and also conveyed his hopeful outlook regarding their return to international cricket.

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

“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,” Shastri tweeted after BCCI released the list of players with central contracts.

Notably, Kishan chose not to participate in Jharkhand’s Ranji Trophy campaign, citing mental fatigue. Instead, he was spotted honing his skills while practicing with newly-appointed Mumbai Indians skipper Hardik Pandya ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL).

Iyer, on the other hand, was excluded from the Indian team after the second Test against England, but he did not make himself available for Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy quarter-final against Baroda. He mentioned having picked up an injury but NCA doctors clarified that he was fit enough to play. Later on, the 29-year-old made himself available for the Ranji Trophy semi-finals, commencing on March 2.

Meanwhile, Shastri also hailed the BCCI's move to unveil 'fast bowling' contracts, underscoring the significance of Test cricket and domestic cricket. He complimented the board for charting the right course for the future of the sport. Notably, Akash Deep, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Umran Malik, Yash Dayal, and Vidwath Kaverappa have been given fast bowling contracts.

“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,” he wrote.