BCCI Takes Action: Manoj Tiwary Fined For Controversial 'Ranji Trophy Should Be Scrapped' Remark

Former Indian batter Manoj Tiwary disclosed that he has been fined by the BCCI for his comments criticising the Ranji Trophy . Tiwary had openly suggested that the premier domestic competition should be scrapped , making his displeasure with the tournament evident.

One day after declaring his retirement, Manoj Tiwary revealed that he has been penalised with a 20% match fee deduction due to a social media post where he advocated for the abolition of the Ranji Trophy. The former cricketer expressed his disappointment over the diminishing significance of the tournament and called for necessary reforms.

Manoj Tiwary tweeted on X: “Ranji Trophy should be scrapped off from the calendar from the next season onwards. So many things going wrong with the tournament. So many things need to looked into in order to save this prestigious tournament which has a rich history. It’s losing its charm and importance. Absolutely frustrated.”

BCCI Directive and Manoj Tiwary's Assertion:

This aligns with the BCCI's recent insistence on centrally contracted players showcasing their skills in domestic cricket for consideration in national squads. Manoj Tiwary suggests that his critique might have played a role in shaping this directive, intending to encourage players such as Ishan Kishan, who prioritise the IPL over participating in the Ranji Trophy.

Observations and Concerns:

Manoj Tiwary pointed out the increasing prevalence of an ‘IPL-centric mindset’ among young cricketers, where they prioritise success in short-format cricket over the traditional first-class format.

He expressed regret over the declining emphasis on developing resilience and technique, criticising the trend of aggressive batting without proper consideration for match situations.

A Plea for Reassessment:

Manoj Tiwary called upon the BCCI to reassess the significance of the Ranji Trophy and address concerns regarding the decreasing commitment from players. He stressed the importance of fostering well-rounded cricketers through a robust domestic structure.

The Ongoing Discussion:

Tiwary's strong expression of concern has ignited discussions about the evolving landscape of Indian cricket and the potential impact of the IPL on domestic competitions. While some endorse his worries, others underscore the changing dynamics of the sport and the necessity for adaptation. The BCCI's response and future actions regarding the Ranji Trophy are yet to unfold.