After consecutive failures of the Indian Test team against New Zealand and Australia, BCCI released a 10-point policy to change the ‘culture’ in the team. One of the policy mandates was making domestic cricket mandatory for all centrally contracted players. The mandate saw a sudden influx of Indian cricketing giants in the Ranji Trophy, something the fans hadn’t witnessed for a long while.
After fans witnessed the likes of Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, and more, represent their domestic state teams in India’s premier domestic Test series, it’s time for another of the biggest names in Indian cricket to take the crease at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.
Following his abysmal form in the Border Gavaskar Trophy, Virat Kohli is all set to play for Delhi on January 30th in a Ranji Trophy game against the Railways. Kohli, who had missed out on Delhi’s group-stage match against Saurashtra due to a neck strain, will play the team’s final game of the season after being out of the domestic circuit for more than a decade. Looking back on Kohli’s last appearance in Ranji Trophy, he had played a game against Uttar Pradesh in the 2012-13 season.
The Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) is making special preparations as they expect fans to turn up in large numbers at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. DDCA is making sure that the stadium is ready to host around 10,000 spectators amidst ongoing renovations. Rohan Jaitley, DDCA President, has confirmed that although the stadium is under renovation, extra seating arrangements will be made for fans if it is necessary. In addition, DDCA has waived off ticket fees and made the entry free for anyone turning up to watch the match.
Even though the BCCI has implemented the policy to strengthen the domestic circuit and ensure a fair participation of centrally contracted players in the domestic circuit, it has had a positive impact on how fans are consuming domestic matches. There has been a renewed interest in the ongoing Ranji Trophy where fans are showing up in large numbers to watch their favourite Indian players. This isn’t just a move to strengthen the ecosystem but a chance for young fans to witness their cricketing idols up close. Ultimately, the consumption of domestic cricket, both physical and online, will complete the circle of youngsters getting inspired to pick up the sport.
Not only that, this also serves as an opportunity for young players to rub shoulders with some of the best in the world and also get the eyeballs by putting in good performances. Domestic cricket continues to serve as the backbone of India’s cricketing legacy and the rapid interest will continue strengthening the foundation of Indian cricket by nurturing future stars and ensuring a steady pipeline of talent for the national team. This is every step in the right direction in keeping domestic cricket as a vital part of the country’s sporting culture.
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