The calls for India’s senior cricketers to return to domestic cricket have only grown louder following the 0-3 whitewash against New Zealand. Many experts argue that seasoned players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli would have benefited from playing in tournaments like the Duleep Trophy. Some even suggest they should participate in the ongoing Ranji Trophy. Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif shares this view, urging top players to “let go of the big cars, flights, and VIP treatment” and focus on domestic matches to regain form.
In the Ranji Trophy, Delhi is set to play an away game against Chandigarh, while Mumbai will host Odisha in upcoming fixtures. Since the Indian team isn’t scheduled to leave for Australia until later in the week, Kaif believes certain players should seize this opportunity to play in the Ranji Trophy. “They need to get back in form and spend time at the crease. Scoring a hundred could be a big confidence boost,” Kaif said in a video shared on social media.
Kaif also recalled Rishabh Pant’s role in India’s historic 2020-21 series win in Australia. Pant, who wasn’t initially part of the ODI or T20I squads, came into the Test series on the back of a century in a practice match and went on to deliver crucial performances. “Pant was included in the XI after scoring in a practice match, and he emerged as a different player,” Kaif said.
He strongly encouraged players like Kohli and Rohit to leave the VIP culture behind and return to domestic cricket to find their rhythm. “If you’re struggling for form and need more game time, then you should absolutely play in domestic cricket. Forget the big cars, flights, and VIP treatment; to regain form, you need to put in the hard work,” Kaif advised.
