Sachin Tendulkar stressed the importance of Indian players participating in domestic competitions like the Ranji Trophy, saying that it provides them with an opportunity to strengthen their fundamental skills while also elevating the level of the domestic competition.

Recently, the BCCI made it compulsory for centrally contracted players to take part in domestic competitions when they are not involved in international commitments or training at the National Cricket Academy (NCA).

Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer were left out of the BCCI's central contract roster for the 2023–24 season because they refused to play for their respective state teams' Ranji Trophy fixtures.

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Sachin Tendulkar wrote on X: “The Ranji Trophy semi-finals have been riveting! @MumbaiCricAssoc’s march into the finals was aided by a brilliant batting recovery, while the other semi-final hangs in the balance going into the last day - Madhya Pradesh need 90+ runs to win, Vidarbha need 4 wickets.”

The Master Blaster continued, “Throughout my career, I remained passionate about playing for Mumbai whenever I had the opportunity. Growing up, we had almost 7-8 India players in our dressing room, and it was fun to play alongside them.

When Indian players turn up for their domestic teams, it raises the quality of play for youngsters and sometimes new talent is identified. It also gives the national players a chance to sometimes rediscover the basics.”

Tendulkar signed off by saying, “With top notch players participating in domestic tournaments, over a period of time, fans will also start following and supporting their domestic teams much more. Wonderful to see @BCCI give equal priority to domestic cricket.”

Mumbai have qualified for their 48th Ranji Trophy final. The 41-time champions will take on either Vidarbha or Madhya Pradesh, who are engaged in a thrilling semifinal, in the final.

(PTI inputs)