The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced a landmark policy requiring cricketers to participate in domestic matches to be eligible for selection in the national team and central contracts. This move aims to prioritize the growth of domestic cricket and ensure players remain actively connected to grassroots-level competitions.
“Participation in domestic matches is mandatory for players to remain eligible for selection in the national team and for central contracts, as per BCCI guidelines,” the board said in its statement.
The policy, revealed on Thursday, mandates that all players must feature in domestic tournaments unless they are granted an exemption under exceptional circumstances. Such exemptions will need formal approval from the Chairman of the Selection Committee.
The BCCI highlighted that this initiative would strengthen the domestic cricket ecosystem by allowing younger players to compete with experienced professionals, encouraging talent development, and maintaining high standards of match fitness. “This policy ensures that players remain connected to the domestic cricket ecosystem, fostering talent development, maintaining match fitness, and strengthening the overall domestic structure,” the board stated.
The board also introduced a new travel policy for players. As per the latest guidelines, all players are expected to travel with the team for matches and practice sessions, while separate travel arrangements with families are discouraged. The policy underscores the importance of team cohesion and collective focus during tours and training sessions. It aims to ensure that players remain committed to their responsibilities as part of the squad, both on and off the field.
The announcement comes on the heels of Team India’s recent struggles, including a 3-1 defeat in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia. The loss not only impacted India’s performance but also cost them a spot in the World Test Championship Final at Lord’s.