India head coach Rahul Dravid has recently stated that he will not be able to release skipper Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.
Before the start of the third ODI against New Zealand at Indore, Dravid addressed a press conference.
According to Dravid, the build-up to the Border-Gavaskar Trophy is a more important event.
On the other hand, many experts have stated that both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli should play for their state teams in the Ranji Trophy.
Virat and Rohit did not participate in the Sri Lanka T20I series and will also not be taking part in the T20Is against New Zealand.
Thus, by participating in the Ranji Trophy, both Rohit and Virat can maintain their fitness and rhythm.
But, Dravid has already given this thought a big no and wants both of them.
We would really like that the boys are able to play but it is a tough one for us. I think the quarters are on 31st or 1st and the build-up to Border-Gavaskar Trophy is at exactly the same time.
Dravid open to releasing players when they are not part of the playing XI
However, Dravid has also stated that he and the BCCI are open to releasing players if and when they are not playing in the series.
These players can fully participate in the semifinals and finals of the Ranji Trophy and BCCI will not cause any hindrance to them.
Additionally, Dravid has also revealed that the selectors are not picking the players from the Ranji Trophy.
Adding further, Dravid says,
Obviously, in the build-up to a big tournament like that, we won’t be able to release any players, but when the series starts, and an opportunity presents itself where someone is not playing and is required in the semifinal or final then we will certainly look at it. We have already agreed that the selectors will not be touching anyone playing in the quarterfinal of the Ranji Trophy.
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