The South Zone selectors have taken a firm stance against the BCCI’s directive, choosing not to include several centrally contracted players in their squad for the Duleep Trophy 2025-27. The BCCI had previously communicated with all cricket associations, requesting the inclusion of centrally contracted players in their respective zonal squads. The South Zone’s initial squad, which notably excluded players such as KL Rahul, Washington Sundar, Mohammed Siraj, Sai Sudharsan, and Prasidh Krishna, was the focus of this communication. Only Tilak Varma was selected. The South Zone selectors have defended their decision, emphasizing that the Duleep Trophy should prioritize deserving domestic players who have excelled in the Ranji Trophy and other domestic circuits. The selectors believe that the tournament should serve as an incentive and reward for domestic performers. They suggest that players like Rahul and Siraj could gain valuable match practice in India A fixtures. This selection dispute has triggered a wider conversation about the selection criteria for tournaments like the Duleep Trophy and how it affects the overall selection strategy, particularly in the context of the Asia Cup and other important tournaments. The BCCI’s response to the South Zone’s actions could have significant implications for future selection practices.
