BCCI’s explanation for why Hardik Pandya’s case is distinct from others is that Ranji’s participation is necessary to qualify for the IPL

The Board of Control for Cricket in India is currently reviewing changes to balance player growth, as players like Ishan Kishan are hesitant to participate in first-class cricket. While Hardik Pandya’s body isn’t strong enough to handle the demands of red-ball and Test cricket, Team India needs him fit for ICC events, according to BCCI. A balanced approach to player development is of utmost importance.

The BCCI is prepared to take a decisive action against players who are waiting for the 2024 season of the Indian Premier League, as they have shown no interest in participating in the current Ranji Trophy season, which is almost finished with its league stage. PTI’s news agency revealed that the management of the Indian team is highly angry about a group of players who have shown reluctance to participate in the domestic first-class tournament despite being physically fit.

Hardik Pandya’s injury and the time it took to recover are as perilous as India not having a trophy for the first time in 10 years. Despite the passage of almost three months since Hardik’s ankle injury during the World Cup against Bangladesh, every time it is widely believed that he is on the brink of recovery, another setback emerges. It was predicted that he would be fit to play against Sri Lanka in the first week of November, but his injury was so severe that he was not only unable to participate in the tournament and miss the Australia and South Africa series, but also failed to reach full fitness for the Afghanistan T20Is. The chances are good that Hardik returns in time for the IPL, but he may not make it to the first half.

According to the Press Trust of India (PTI), there is a growing frustration among Indian team management regarding players’ unwillingness to compete for their state teams in the highly respected domestic first-class tournament, despite their physical fitness.

This became the focus of attention as discussions about Ishan Kishan’s extended period of inactivity from cricket grew. However, it was mental health fatigue that led to the decision by the young Indian wicketkeeper-batsman to take a break in the middle of his South Africa tour.

The Indian team’s coach, Rahul Dravid, has stated that players must gain significant playing time before considering a return to international cricket. According to Dravid, he hopes that Ishan Kishan will be able to participate in the Ranji Trophy season for Jharkhand in the future, and he stressed the importance of practicing and getting ready for matches.