Ishan Kishan to be released from Indian Cricket Board's central contracts: Reports

The star India wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan has become embroiled in controversies after citing "travel fatigue" for withdrawing from the Test squad during India's tour of South Africa. However, despite this, he reportedly hasn't made himself available for selection, prompting the India Cricket Board to consider revising the criteria for player eligibility. In the latest development, the India Cricket Board is considering mandating a minimum number of Ranji Trophy matches for players to be eligible for the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Ishan Kishan, who continues to remain under contract with the India Cricket Board, has purportedly been directed to participate in Jharkhand's final group league fixture against Rajasthan, commencing on February 15. Failure to do so could jeopardize his contract. In a conversation with PTI, a senior official from the Indian Cricket Board was questioned about Ishan Kishan's reported release from his central contract. The official responded that there have been no discussions regarding this matter.

"No discussions have taken place as of now regarding central contracts. The decision makers in India Cricket Board are well aware that some players don't want to play any red ball cricket. If they are out of Indian team, they would at best play a few Mushtaq Ali T20 game and then not to report for state team duty during red ball season," the Indian Cricket Board official said to PTI as reported by Timesnownews.

He can’t withstand the workload of Test cricket: Indian Cricket Board official

Amidst the controversy surrounding Ishan Kishan, there was also scrutiny over Hardik Pandya's comeback. Regarding Pandya, who sustained an injury during the 2023 ODI World Cup in India, the Indian Cricket Board official stated to TOI that they acknowledge that Hardik Pandya's situation as his body may not withstand the demands of Test cricket. The Indian Cricket Board official further emphasized that Pandya's fitness needs to be preserved for major events.

"He can't withstand the workload of Test cricket and Team India needs him fit for major events," India Cricket Board official said as reported by Sports Tiger.