Kapil backs BCCI strictness on domestic cricket

New Delhi, March 1

Former India captain Kapil Dev has backed the BCCI’s decision to terminate central contracts for lack of commitment to domestic cricket, calling it a much-needed step to protect marquee First-Class events like the Ranji Trophy.

Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer were on Wednesday excluded from the BCCI’s central contracts after ignoring the board’s diktat to play in the Ranji Trophy.

“Kuch logon ko taqleef hogi, hone do lekin desh se badhkar koi nahi hai (some people will suffer but let it be because nobody is bigger than the country),” he said.

“It was high time the message was given and this strong step by the BCCI will go a long way in restoring the prestige of domestic cricket. I have always believed in the process of international players making themselves available to play for their respective states. It helps them extend their support to domestic players. Also it is a nice way to pay back for the services rendered by the state association in grooming a player,” he added.

Kapil also expressed gratitude to BCCI for enhancing the pension of former playes, saying it has come as a major relief to their families.