T20 World Cup 2024: Jay Shah provides massive update on Hardik Pandya's future in white-ball cricket

BCCI Honorable Secretary Jay Shah has given a massive update on Hardik Pandya's participation in the upcoming domestic season of Indian cricket.

Hardik Pandya, who is touted to be India's next T20I captain, has been scrutinized for the fact that he doesn't actively participate in domestic cricket. His fitness and injury issues are also a major concern for the Indian board but after Jay Shah's latest update, it seems as if Pandya will be playing in the upcoming season.

Jay Shah says Hardik Pandya is ready to play Syed Mushtaq Ali and Vijay Hazare trophy

While speaking to media reporters recently, Jay Shah confirmed that he had a word with Hardik Pandya on the subject of his participation in domestic cricket. Shah indicated that the conversation was fruitful and that the senior Indian all-rounder has agreed to feature in the upcoming season. 

Jay Shah confirmed that Hardik Pandya told the BCCI about his willingness to play in the Syed Mushtaq Ali trophy and the Vijay Hazare trophy. Pandya was adamant about it as he stated that he doesn't seem to have a problem with it if that's what the apex board ultimately wants. 

"Hardik (Pandya) said if BCCI is considering me for white-ball, then I am ready to play Vijay Hazare Trophy and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. Any player will have to play, even if they do not want to, they will have to." - Jay Shah told media reporters. 

Shah says players must deliver impressive performances consistently to be considered the "right player"

Shah further claimed that no Indian cricketer will be able to escape from appearing for their state teams in the domestic circuit. Every player will have to play in tournaments like Ranji, Syed Mushtaq Ali, and Vijay Hazare trophy even if they don't want to. 

The BCCI secretary had himself said a few months ago that players will be selected for the Indian team based on their domestic performances. The Indian Premier League cannot be the only gateway through which players will enter directly to the National team setup.   

In that context, Jay Shah mentioned the name of Ishan Kishan, who was scrapped off the central contract list almost 3 months ago. Shah said that players like Kishan can play in the IPL in a much more relaxed way but playing regularly for the Indian team is a different ball game. 

Shah stressed the fact that players should be able to perform consistently to prove themselves. The player who will be able to shine despite all the challenges will be considered the right player for the team.  

"Whoever plays well in the IPL... like say Ishan Kishan, he finds it difficult to take part with the Indian team but he can play in Mumbai Indians as a player. There he can play in a relaxed manner. In Team India, you have to prove yourself, give back to back performances. The one who can handle that can be described as a right player." - Jay Shah concluded.