Shikhar Dhawan Backs BCCI’s Mandate for Mandatory Domestic Cricket, Advocates Balance

Former Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan has expressed his support for the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) decision to make domestic cricket mandatory for all players. However, Dhawan emphasized the importance of striking a balance between game time and adequate rest to prevent player burnout.

Dhawan, present as an ambassador during India’s match against Pakistan in the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025, witnessed Virat Kohli’s stellar century firsthand as India secured a six-wicket victory. Speaking to the media, Dhawan shared his views on the BCCI’s new mandate.

“It’s a very good decision. My only thing is that players should not be overloaded, that’s all. But people will monitor that,” Dhawan said, as quoted by PTI. He added, “It’s a good thing that current players should play domestic as well – like how Virat played (for Delhi a few weeks back) and the stadium got packed. At the same time, they should be rested enough.”

The BCCI implemented this mandate following India’s defeat to Australia, which cost the team a spot in the World Test Championship after a 1-3 series loss on away soil. India, being one of the teams that play the most matches annually, faces challenges in ensuring that players get sufficient rest. Jasprit Bumrah, for instance, suffered an injury after extensive bowling, causing him to miss the ongoing Champions Trophy 2025 clash.

Dhawan also commented on Shubman Gill’s potential as a future captain. “Yes, of course, he will become captain. He is vice-captain right now; it is pretty obvious that he will be captain someday,” Dhawan said. Gill has been in fine form, delivering a match-winning century against Bangladesh in their opening game of the tournament and showing promise against Pakistan despite missing out on a fifty.

India will hope that Gill continues his stellar form for the remainder of the tournament as they aim for glory in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.