Cricket

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has witnessed a remarkable financial surge, earning a surplus of Rs 5120 crore from the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023. This represents a significant 116% increase compared to the Rs 2367 crore surplus generated in IPL 2022.The BCCI's total income from IPL 2023 amounted to Rs 11,769 crore, marking a substantial 78% year-on-year growth. However, the expenditure also increased by 66% to Rs 6648 crore, as per the BCCI's annual report for 2022-23.The primary drivers behind this financial growth were the new media rights and sponsorship deals. The new media rights deal, valued at Rs 48,390 crore for the 2023-27 cycle, commenced with IPL 2023. Disney Star secured the IPL TV rights for Rs 23,575 crore, while Jio Cinema acquired the digital rights for Rs 23,758 crore.Additionally, the IPL title rights were sold to Tata Sons for Rs 2500 crore. These lucrative deals have significantly boosted the BCCI's revenue streams.Meanwhile, the Indian cricket team has decided not to travel to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The BCCI has requested the International Cricket Council (ICC) to host India's matches in Sri Lanka or Dubai instead.This decision stems from the ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan. Since 2008, India has not participated in any cricket tournaments held in Pakistan. The last bilateral series between the two nations was held in India from December 2012 to January 2013.The Pakistan Cricket Board had proposed that India play all its matches in one city, reportedly Lahore. However, the BCCI has rejected this proposal, citing security concerns.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has implemented a strict policy mandating all centrally contracted players to participate in domestic cricket when fit and not on national duty. This move comes after the exclusion of Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer from the central contracts list due to their absence from domestic games.BCCI secretary Jay Shah has emphasized the importance of domestic cricket for player fitness and selection. He stated that the harsh action taken against Iyer and Kishan has prompted them to participate in the upcoming Duleep Trophy. Shah also highlighted the case of Ravindra Jadeja, who was asked to play a domestic game after recovering from injury.However, the BCCI has exempted top players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Hardik Pandya, and Jasprit Bumrah from domestic cricket as part of workload management. Shah explained that these players are at risk of injury if they are overburdened with domestic matches.The BCCI's decision has sparked debate among cricket fans and experts. Some argue that it is essential for players to maintain their form and fitness through domestic cricket, while others believe that top players should be rested to avoid burnout.The policy change is a significant step by the BCCI to ensure that players are match-ready and available for national selection. It also highlights the importance of domestic cricket as a pathway to the Indian team.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is considering a significant move that could impact the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) franchise in the upcoming 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. According to sources, the BCCI is likely to categorize Mahendra Singh Dhoni as an uncapped player, a move that would significantly reduce the cost of retaining the legendary cricketer.Under the current IPL player regulations, players who have retired from international cricket for at least five years are placed in the uncapped category. Dhoni, who retired from international cricket in 2020, would qualify for this category under the proposed rule change. This means that CSK could retain Dhoni for a mere Rs 4 crores, a significant reduction from the Rs 12 crores they paid in 2022.The BCCI's decision to revisit the uncapped player rule is reportedly driven by the CSK management's request during a meeting with IPL franchise owners on July 31. Dhoni, who has been a key figure for CSK since the inaugural IPL season, has expressed his desire to continue playing for the franchise.Despite handing over the captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad before the start of IPL 2024, Dhoni remains a vital cog in the CSK batting lineup. In the 2023 season, he scored 161 runs in just 73 balls, showcasing his ability to contribute in the death overs.Dhoni has indicated that he will wait for the official IPL player regulations before making a decision on his future. However, the BCCI's move to categorize him as an uncapped player could make it more financially feasible for CSK to retain his services.The BCCI's decision is expected to have a ripple effect on other IPL franchises, as it could set a precedent for the treatment of retired international players. It remains to be seen how the other teams will respond to this potential rule change and whether it will lead to a shift in the retention strategies of the franchises.

India's wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan is set to make a grand return to domestic red-ball cricket in the upcoming Duleep Trophy. Kishan, who last played a domestic game in 2022, will lead Team D in the tournament, which kicks off on September 2024.Prior to the Duleep Trophy, Kishan will lead Jharkhand in the Buchi Babu tournament. The 25-year-old last played for India in the T20I series against Australia in November 2023. He was also part of the team for the subsequent tour of South Africa but withdrew due to personal reasons.Kishan's absence from domestic cricket towards the end of the 2023-24 season proved costly, as he was removed from the central contract list for not prioritizing domestic cricket. BCCI secretary Jay Shah has emphasized the importance of Kishan playing domestic cricket to regain his place in the Indian side.The Duleep Trophy marks the start of the new domestic season and will feature some of the finest players from the international circuit and emerging talents. The tournament will be played in Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh, and Bengaluru, Karnataka.Despite reports that senior players might be picked for the Duleep Trophy, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, and Ravichandran Ashwin have not been selected. Shubman Gill, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and Shreyas Iyer will captain the four teams.Kishan's decision to participate in the Duleep Trophy is a significant step in his bid to regain his place in the Indian team. He has featured in two Tests, 17 ODIs, and 11 T20Is for India in 2023 and was part of the squad that reached the final of the 2023 ODI World Cup.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has clarified its stance on the participation of senior Indian cricketers Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the upcoming Duleep Trophy. BCCI Secretary Jay Shah stated that the board does not consider it necessary for the seasoned duo to participate in the domestic tournament.Shah emphasized the importance of workload management for established players like Sharma and Kohli, who are integral to India's plans across all formats. He highlighted that international players in Australia and England do not typically participate in domestic cricket, and the BCCI should treat its players with respect.The BCCI's decision reflects a growing trend in international cricket, where boards are prioritizing the fitness and availability of their senior players. This approach aims to balance the need for domestic players to gain match practice with the importance of safeguarding the health of established stars.Shah acknowledged the significance of the Duleep Trophy as a platform for emerging players, but stressed that the board's focus is on ensuring the long-term fitness of its key players. He noted that other senior players, such as Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer, are participating in the Buchi Babu tournament.The BCCI's stance underscores the importance of strategic workload management in the context of a demanding international calendar. While the Duleep Trophy remains a valuable tournament for developing talent, the board's decision highlights the need to prioritize the fitness and longevity of its senior players.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has declined the International Cricket Council's (ICC) request to host the upcoming Women's T20 World Cup in October due to monsoon season and the upcoming Women's ODI World Cup in 2023.The ICC is now considering alternative venues, with Sri Lanka and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) emerging as potential hosts. The tournament is scheduled to take place from October 3-20.The decision to rule out India as a host stems from concerns about the monsoon season, which could disrupt matches, and the BCCI's desire to avoid hosting consecutive World Cups."They [ICC] have asked us if we would conduct the World Cup. I have categorically said no," BCCI Secretary Jay Shah told Times of India. "We're in the monsoon and on top of that we will host the Women's ODI World Cup next year. I don't want to give any kind of signals that I want to hold consecutive World Cups."The ICC is closely monitoring the situation in Bangladesh, which was originally scheduled to host the tournament. However, recent violence and security challenges have raised concerns about the safety of participants."The ICC is closely monitoring developments in co-ordination with the Bangladesh Cricket Board [BCB], their security agencies and our own independent security consultants," an ICC statement said. "Our priority is the safety and well-being of all participants."The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is facing a crisis, with its president and former sports minister Nazmul Hassan effectively out of office since the fall of the Awami League government on August 5. Several board directors have also been incommunicado.The BCCI has not yet spoken to the new Bangladesh authorities but plans to reach out to them. The Bangladesh series is considered important for India's preparation for the T20 World Cup in Australia later this year.In other news, VVS Laxman's tenure as the head of the National Cricket Academy (NCA) will be extended. Laxman's current contract expires in September, but BCCI Secretary Jay Shah confirmed that he will continue in the role.

Jay Shah, the dynamic BCCI secretary, is spearheading a transformative era for Indian cricket. With a vision to elevate the sport to unprecedented heights, he has unveiled ambitious plans that will revolutionize the cricketing landscape.Shah's most significant announcement is the establishment of a state-of-the-art National Cricket Academy (NCA) on the outskirts of Bengaluru. This world-class facility will not only cater to the needs of Indian cricketers but also be accessible to Olympic athletes like Neeraj Chopra. The NCA will serve as a hub for player development, injury rehabilitation, and cutting-edge sports science research.In addition to the NCA, Shah has also announced plans for a cricket stadium in Varanasi and NCA facilities in six North-Eastern states and Jammu. These initiatives aim to promote cricket in underrepresented regions and provide equal opportunities for aspiring cricketers.Regarding the upcoming Champions Trophy, Shah emphasized that the BCCI will cross the bridge when it comes to India's participation in Pakistan. He expressed confidence in hosting the Bangladesh series despite the recent political turmoil in the neighboring country.Shah also addressed concerns about the impact player rule in the IPL. While acknowledging its potential to limit the development of all-rounders, he emphasized the need to consider the interests of broadcasters and the overall growth of the game.On the topic of player retentions and mega auctions, Shah stated that the BCCI will make a decision based on the majority view of franchise owners. He acknowledged the desire for consistency among settled teams but also recognized the benefits of shuffling things up to foster competition.Shah's vision extends beyond the men's game. He is committed to the development of women's cricket, highlighting the success of the Women's Premier League. He expressed optimism about expanding the league in the future and exploring the possibility of a Test Championship for women.To address the financial challenges faced by weaker cricket boards, Shah proposed the creation of a dedicated fund for touring fees in Test cricket. He believes that this will encourage teams to participate in the longest format of the game.Shah also discussed the appointment of Morne Morkel as India's bowling coach and the need for a 15-day gap between the end of the IPL and the WTC final to ensure adequate preparation.In conclusion, Jay Shah's bold initiatives are poised to transform Indian cricket. His focus on infrastructure development, player welfare, and the promotion of the sport in all corners of the country will undoubtedly elevate India's cricketing prowess to new heights.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced two significant changes to its upcoming home season schedule. The first T20I against Bangladesh, originally scheduled for Dharamsala on October 6, has been moved to Gwalior. Additionally, the venues for the first and second T20Is against England in January 2025 have been swapped.The relocation of the Bangladesh T20I from Dharamsala to Gwalior stems from ongoing renovations to the dressing rooms at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium. This marks the second international fixture to be shifted out of Dharamsala in recent times, following the relocation of the third Test between India and Australia to Indore in February 2023 due to outfield issues.The inaugural international match at the new Madhavrao Scindia Cricket Stadium in Gwalior will be the T20I against Bangladesh. It will also be the first international fixture in the city since 2010, when Sachin Tendulkar made history by scoring the first double-century in men's ODIs.Regarding the England tour, the first T20I was initially scheduled for Chennai on January 22, with Kolkata hosting the second on January 25. However, the venues have been swapped at the request of Kolkata Police due to prior Republic Day commitments.India's 2024-25 home season commences with two Tests and three T20Is against Bangladesh from September 19 to October 12. New Zealand will then visit for three Test matches from October 16 to November 5.Following a tour of Australia for five Tests from November 22 to January 7, India will return home to host England for five T20Is and three ODIs from January 22 to February 12. The ODIs against England will be India's only scheduled 50-over games before the 2025 Champions Trophy in Pakistan.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to unveil a state-of-the-art National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, India. The new facility, nearing completion, will provide world-class training and development opportunities for current and future cricketers.The NCA boasts three world-class playing grounds, 45 practice pitches, and indoor cricket pitches. It also features an Olympic-size swimming pool, cutting-edge training facilities, and advanced recovery and sports science programs.The new NCA is an extension of the existing academy, which has been operating in Bengaluru since 2000. The current NCA, headed by former India cricketer VVS Laxman, is located near the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium and is primarily used for player rehabilitation.The BCCI is also planning to establish NCAs in Jammu and Kashmir and the North East. These regional academies will provide access to high-quality training and development programs for aspiring cricketers in these regions.The new NCA in Bengaluru is expected to play a pivotal role in the development of Indian cricket. It will provide a comprehensive platform for players to hone their skills, improve their fitness, and prepare for international competition.The BCCI's investment in the NCA reflects its commitment to fostering excellence in Indian cricket. The academy will serve as a hub for innovation, research, and development, ensuring that India remains a global powerhouse in the sport.