Post-Test Series Loss, BCCI Sends Indian Stars to Domestic Cricket Arena, Here is the List of Star Players

Mumbai: After the disappointing Test series losses to New Zealand and Australia, the BCCI has issued a firm directive requiring Team India players to actively participate in the Ranji Trophy. Responding to this, eight players from the national Test squad have confirmed their involvement in the domestic tournament. Among them, Virat Kohli is making a highly anticipated return to Ranji cricket after 13 years, while Rohit Sharma will mark his first domestic appearance in a decade. 

Wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant, who last featured in a Ranji game seven years ago, is also set to take the field. Meanwhile, Mohammed Siraj, recently excluded from the Champions Trophy squad, has declared his readiness to represent Hyderabad. 

Karnataka’s key batter KL Rahul is expected to join the action in the tournament's second phase. Having not played for Karnataka in four years, Rahul is looking forward to contributing to the state side once again. 

Ravindra Jadeja, India’s seasoned all-rounder, is already prepared to compete in the Ranji Trophy, while emerging stars like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill will also be adding their flair to the tournament. 

 Players Representing Team India in Ranji Trophy: 

- Rohit Sharma – Mumbai 

- Virat Kohli – Delhi 

- Shubman Gill – Punjab 

- Rishabh Pant – Delhi 

- Yashasvi Jaiswal – Mumbai 

- Ravindra Jadeja – Saurashtra 

- KL Rahul – Karnataka 

- Mohammed Siraj – Hyderabad 

 Tournament Timeline 

The second phase of the Ranji Trophy is set to begin on January 23, with players like Rohit Sharma, Ravindra Jadeja, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant, and Shubman Gill confirmed for the opening matches. 

Starting from January 30, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, and Mohammed Siraj are expected to join. Kohli, who is recovering from a neck injury, has confirmed his availability for matches scheduled from January 30 onward. 

KL Rahul, sidelined due to an elbow injury, will miss Karnataka’s opening fixture but is anticipated to return for the second round. Similarly, Mohammed Siraj has conveyed to the Hyderabad Cricket Association that he will be available from January 30. 

With top players returning to the domestic circuit, the Ranji Trophy promises to deliver thrilling cricket and much-needed momentum for Team India stars.