Ranji Trophy 2021-22: No confirmation of availability from Ishant Sharma

India’s tall seamer Ishant Sharma has been unreachable by the Delhi District Cricket Association and 33 year old hasn’t sent any message of his availability for the upcoming Ranji Trophy 2022 season which makes his Test career uncertain. Ishant did not get a game in the three-match Tests in South Africa and last played for India in the first Test against New Zealand after the T20 World Cup 2021.

Ishant has fallen out of the race with strong competition from the likes of Mohammad Siraj, Umesh Yadav for the third seamer in the side and he hasn’t looked at his best in his last game as well. The lanky pacer who has played 105 Tests for India might no longer be in the plans for India as the transition phase has started. Along with Ishant, Wriddhiman Saha, Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara are also on the verge of losing their spots in the Test team.

Their chances of playing Tests would drop drastically: BCCI source

According to the TOI news, a BCCI source had mentioned the management is looking ahead of the four veteran players who haven’t produced results as they should have. Saha has stated his unavailability for the Bengal side in the upcoming Ranji season while the likes of Rahane and Pujara have been named in their respective state squads to regain form. The experienced duo might get a lifeline if they manage to hit loads of runs in the domestic tournament and get their mojo back.

“They have been told that the Indian team management is looking to groom the next line of players. Their chances of playing Tests would drop drastically” A BCCI source was quoted as saying by TOI

“Things don’t look flowery for Rahane and Pujara too. They are playing Ranji Trophy which is a good sign. They are walking a tight rope though,” the source added

Meanwhile, India is yet to name their Test captain for the upcoming home Tests against Sri Lanka and Rohit Sharma is the top contender for the position at the moment. There could be some big names missing out in the series as India will be looking to try out the youngsters on the bench.