The BCCI has expressed its displeasure after South Zone selectors left out senior India players KL Rahul and Mohammed Siraj from the Duleep Trophy 2025 squad. The tournament, beginning August 28 in Bengaluru, is seen as a key domestic competition to test national and fringe talent.
In an email to zonal convenors and state units, BCCI GM (cricket operations) Abey Kuruvilla reminded associations to give priority to centrally contracted India players. He stressed that their participation was essential to “maintain the prestige and competitive standard” of the Duleep Trophy.
The South Zone squad announced on July 27, led by Tilak Varma, excluded not only Rahul and Siraj but also Washington Sundar, Prasidh Krishna, and Sai Sudharsan — despite their availability. The move drew sharp reaction from the board, which has repeatedly warned that players cannot prioritise IPL or rest over domestic commitments without prior approval.
While selectors have not yet confirmed if the squad will be revised, many other internationals, including Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Kuldeep Yadav, and Mohammed Shami, are expected to play for their respective zones.
Some state associations argue that automatic inclusion of India stars sidelines consistent Ranji performers. However, the BCCI has made it clear: participation in domestic cricket is mandatory for all players seeking national selection unless officially exempted.
