A significant disagreement has emerged as the South Zone selectors have chosen to disregard the BCCI’s directive regarding player selection for the upcoming Duleep Trophy 2025-27. The BCCI had sent out an email to all cricket associations, recommending the inclusion of centrally contracted players in their respective zonal squads for the tournament. The South Zone’s initial squad, which excluded key players like KL Rahul, Washington Sundar, Mohammed Siraj, Sai Sudharsan, and Prasidh Krishna, was the primary focus of this recommendation. Tilak Varma was the only centrally contracted player included. The South Zone selectors have justified their decision, stating that the Duleep Trophy should serve as a reward for domestic performers who have excelled in the Ranji Trophy and other domestic competitions. They believe that deserving domestic players should be given priority. A South Zone official emphasized the importance of rewarding players from teams like Kerala, who reached the Ranji Trophy final. The selectors have also proposed that players like Rahul and Siraj could gain valuable match practice in India A fixtures. This controversy has initiated a debate about the selection philosophy for tournaments like the Duleep Trophy and the broader implications for Indian cricket, especially with the upcoming Asia Cup and other major tournaments. The BCCI’s handling of this situation could shape future selection policies.
