• BCCI imposes strict rule for Test selection; only three players get exception

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    BCCI imposes strict rule for Test selection; only three players get exception

    The BCCI strongly recommends that all other Test specialists participate in at least one if not multiple, Duleep Trophy matches in August to prepare for the upcoming series against Bangladesh and New Zealand.'

    Digital Desk: The conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2024 marked a significant milestone for Indian cricket, with Rohit Sharma and his team ending India's 11-year ICC title drought. Looking forward, the team is now focused on the 2025 Champions Trophy and the World Test Championship final. These upcoming tournaments hold immense importance for experienced players like Rohit and Virat Kohli, who have retired from T20Is.

    In preparation for these events, Rohit Sharma and his team are fully engaged. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had earlier mandated participation in domestic tournaments for players aspiring to represent the national team, ensuring they maintain peak performance levels.

    As reported by the news agency PTI, the BCCI has taken a significant stride forward. However, there are three notable exceptions to this new policy. BCCI Secretary Jay Shah stressed the importance of top cricketers being available for domestic commitments when not on international duty. Yet, exceptions will be made for exceptional players such as Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah.

    The BCCI strongly recommends that all other Test specialists participate in at least one if not multiple, Duleep Trophy matches in August to prepare for the upcoming series against Bangladesh and New Zealand.

    "This time, the Duleep Trophy teams will be selected only by the national selection committee, without the involvement of zonal selection committees," a source added.

    The upcoming Test series will mark the first two series under the coaching tenure of Gautam Gambhir.