Ajinkya Rahane Calls for Recently Retired Players as Domestic Cricket Selectors

Veteran Indian batter Ajinkya Rahane has advocated for a significant overhaul in the selection process for domestic cricket, proposing that only recently retired first-class players should serve as selectors to align with the evolving demands of the game. Speaking on his YouTube channel alongside former teammate Cheteshwar Pujara, Rahane emphasized the need for selectors with a contemporary mindset to foster fearless play. Current Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) rules allow anyone with 10 first-class matches and at least five years of retirement to apply as a state selector, a criterion Rahane believes is outdated given the rapid changes driven by formats like T20 and the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Rahane argued that selectors who retired within the last five to eight years are better equipped to understand modern cricket’s dynamics, including the aggressive batting and versatile skill sets demanded in today’s game. “The way cricket is evolving, the mentality and mindset of selectors must keep pace,” he said, highlighting the importance of fearless expression on the field. He suggested a diverse pool of selectors from all states to encourage players to perform without the fear of judgment, fostering a culture of confidence. Pujara, who retired from all formats in August 2025 after a 103-Test career, partially agreed but cautioned against excluding experienced former players with strong records, particularly in larger states with more options.

Both players underscored the critical role of domestic cricket, particularly the Ranji Trophy, in shaping India’s Test team. Pujara noted that recent selections reflect a positive trend, with domestic performers earning national call-ups, a practice they believe should continue. “Those who want to play Test cricket should perform well in domestic cricket,” Rahane said, emphasizing the prestige of earning a Test cap through consistent first-class success. They dismissed notions that players are reluctant to participate in domestic tournaments, with Pujara explaining that while priorities have shifted due to fewer Test matches and the rise of white-ball formats, domestic cricket remains vital globally.

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The discussion also highlighted the transformation of Indian cricket since the IPL’s inception in 2008, which has elevated infrastructure and exposure but slightly diluted domestic focus. Rahane, who stepped down as Mumbai’s captain in August but remains active in international cricket, and Pujara praised the improved facilities and competitive quality of domestic cricket. Their dialogue reflects a broader push to balance tradition with modernity, ensuring that India’s robust domestic system continues to nurture talent capable of excelling on the global stage, particularly in Test cricket.

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