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Should Ajit Agarkar continue till 2027 World Cup? BCCI vice-president weighs in
TL;DR
BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla discusses the factors behind India's cricket success, highlighting the depth of talent and structured development programs. He emphasizes the importance of leagues like the IPL in nurturing young players.
Key points
- BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla discusses cricket success
- India has a vast talent pool with 4-5 capable players per position
- Grassroots development is crucial for nurturing young talent
- IPL and WPL provide world-class exposure for player growth
Mentioned in this story
BCCIRajeev Shukla
At a time when Indian cricket is scaling new heights on the global stage, vice-president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Rajeev Shukla, shares insights into the system driving this sustained success.
In a conversation with TOI, Shukla speaks about the depth of India’s talent pool, the role of structured domestic platforms, and the impact of leagues like the IPL. Excerpts:
Q: India’s cricket is at an all-time high, winning multiple World Cups in recent years. What are the key reasons behind this success?
Indian cricket’s success is built on the strength of its vast talent pool. Today, for every position, we have 4-5 equally capable players, which ensures depth and healthy competition. There is a strong focus on grassroots development, where young talent is identified and nurtured early. The high-performance ecosystem, including the centre of excellence in Bengaluru, plays a crucial role not only in training but also in injury management and player longevity. Structured tournaments across all age groups — men and women — ensure continuous exposure and growth. Platforms like the IPL and WPL have further accelerated this development by providing world-class exposure.
Q: There has been a demand for four UP teams in domestic cricket. What is your view?
This matter is governed by the Supreme Court’s directives, which clearly state that one state can have only one team, with limited historical exceptions like Gujarat and Maharashtra. Therefore, under the current framework, Uttar Pradesh cannot have multiple teams unless there is a bifurcation of the state. However, an effective alternative is to create high-quality competitive platforms that provide wider exposure. Initiatives like a professionally structured T20 league with six teams have enabled participation of over 200 players, offering them a stage with global visibility and opportunities for higher recognition.
Q: How do you see Indian cricket progressing from here?
Indian cricket is poised to grow stronger. With continued investment in infrastructure, player development, and sports science, coupled with early exposure and professional training, the pipeline of talent will only improve. The system ensures that players are well-prepared from a young age. With sustained focus on nurturing talent, Indian cricket will scale new heights globally.
Q: Do you think chief selector Ajit Agarkar should continue till the 2027 World Cup?
Q&A
What are the reasons for India's recent cricket success?
India's cricket success is attributed to a vast talent pool, grassroots development, and a high-performance ecosystem that nurtures young players.
How does the IPL contribute to the growth of Indian cricket?
The IPL provides world-class exposure to players, accelerating their development and enhancing the overall quality of Indian cricket.
What role does the BCCI play in supporting cricket talent in India?
The BCCI supports cricket talent through structured domestic platforms, injury management, and continuous exposure via tournaments across all age groups.
