“Allow three foreign players” - Former India cricketer’s interesting take on domestic cricket

Former India batter Navjot Singh Sidhu recently explained why T20 is gaining more popularity than Tests. The 61-year-old feels that like Indian Premier League (IPL), the BCCI should allow overseas players to play in the Ranji Trophy to popularize first-class cricket back home.

He even suggested that three foreign Test specialists like former New Zealand captain Kane Williamson, England all-rounder Ben Stokes, and Temba Bavuma, among others can play in the last eight stages of the prestigious domestic tournament.

Sidhu’s remarks came amid Team India’s declining status in Tests, having lost back-to-back series against New Zealand (home) and Australia (away).

Sidhu said on YouTube (via Sports Tak):

“Around 140 overseas players apply in IPL, check the Test format players. There is South Africa captain, New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson. There you will find Ben Stokes, Anderson who recently retired. There is David Warner.”

“When the top eight teams qualify for the Ranji Trophy, if you can’t play four allow three foreign players. See, how the limelight and appreciation will come,” he added.

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“What’s the incentive? He is a hero of the World Cup” – Navjot Singh Sidhu on India star duo skipping 2024 Duleep Trophy

Navjot Singh Sidhu further backed Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s decision to skip the 2024 Duleep Trophy citing non-stop international cricket and IPL. Highlighting Mohammed Shami's example, the cricketer-turned-commentator said that big players should only play when they have to prove themselves.

“A man has won the [T20] World Cup. Gautam Gambhir said a very good thing, play all three formats. So, if you are playing all three formats then don’t talk about playing Dulep Trophy. What’s the incentive? He is a hero of the World Cup," Sidhu continued.

“I can understand that you if are not doing well then enter domestic cricket. For example – Mohammed Shami, you are injured, you have to prove yourself. You’ll get to NCA and all the places but there are circumstances. Either you adjust to the conditions or get the circumstances in your favor. This is the reason why a small phase has been subject to criticism,” he added.

There are growing talks regarding Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma skipping domestic cricket following their failures after India's Test series losses against New Zealand and Australia.