Duleep Trophy 2025-27: South Zone Selectors Clash with BCCI Over Player Selection

The South Zone selectors have made a controversial decision, going against the BCCI’s instructions by excluding multiple centrally contracted players from the Duleep Trophy 2025-27 squad. This move is a direct response to the BCCI’s communication urging all cricket associations to include centrally contracted players. While the directive was addressed to all zones, the South Zone’s initial squad selection, which excluded players such as KL Rahul, Washington Sundar, Mohammed Siraj, Sai Sudharsan, and Prasidh Krishna, was the primary point of contention. Only Tilak Varma was selected from the list of centrally contracted players, prompting the BCCI’s intervention. The South Zone selectors have defended their stance, arguing that the Duleep Trophy should be a reward for domestic cricketers who perform well in the Ranji Trophy and other domestic competitions. One official highlighted that Kerala, who reached the Ranji Trophy final after 90 years, deserved representation in the squad. The selectors also believe that India A fixtures would be a more appropriate avenue for players like Rahul and Siraj to gain match practice, rather than taking spots from deserving domestic players. This situation has sparked a debate within Indian cricket regarding the selection philosophy for tournaments like the Duleep Trophy and its potential impact on upcoming tournaments, including the Asia Cup.