In a recent session on Instagram, former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan and batsman Suresh Raina had a discussion. The duo talked about the Board of Control for Cricket in India and various policies related to the game of cricket. This was with regards to the selection process and how players could increase the longevity of their career.

BCCI has a current stance of disallowing Indian players from participating in international leagues. This doesn’t always go down well with the players who are looking to earn a spot in the national side. The pair appealed to the country’s supreme cricketing board to change its approach. They wanted the BCCI to adopt a more lenient approach.

Raina went on to say, “I wish BCCI plans something with ICC or the franchises that Indian players get to play foreign leagues.”

The two-time World Cup-winning batsman was not picked for the 2019 World Cup. Chief selector MSK Prasad had recently come out and said that it was due to his poor form in the domestic circuit. Prasad had also given him the example of VVS Laxman.

What Suresh Raina Added?

With that being said, Raina feels that every player should be allowed to participate in at least a couple of foreign leagues. He added, “At least allow us to play in two foreign leagues.”

Irrespective of some of the other international cricketing bodies, the BCCI has always had a firm stance in this matter. They have discouraged Indian players from playing in other countries. Pundits suggest that the prime reason for this is to preserve the country’s next-generation of Test-cricketers.

Due to this, several fringe players are being directly or indirectly deprived of the chance to script a comeback. Yusuf Pathan happens to be one such player. Back in 2018, the 37-year old all-rounder wanted to compete in the Abu Dhabi T-10 league. However, the BCCI did not approve his No Objection Certificate for participation. This had a negative impact on his career.

Similar was the case with leg-spinner Pravin Tambe as well. The player did not inform the board about his participation in the Abu Dhabi T10 league. Due to this, the BCCI disqualified the 48-year old’s participation from the upcoming IPL.

Raina added that the players of his age need to participate in more quality matches. This is what can boost their chances of a comeback. He added, “If we play quality cricket in terms of foreign leagues, it would be good for us. International players make comebacks through their performances in such leagues.”

What Pathan Said?

Irfan Pathan also wanted something similar. The seasoned T20 campaigner, who is hopeful of playing in the Caribbean Premier League stated,  “Allow fringe players above 30 to participate in leagues.”

The 35-year-old fast-bowler hopes that he can contribute to changing the process. It will take time but things can surely happen.

Pathan went on to add, “There is a different mindset in different countries. Michael Hussey made his debut at the age of 29 for Australia; an Indian player can never make his debut at the age of 30. I think as long if fitness isn’t an issue, you should be available to play for your country. I would suggest that all those players who are 30 years old and they are not on your radar to play international matches, you should allow them to play in foreign leagues.”