IPL is his only chance says Akash Chopra after BCCI excludes Ishan Kishan from the contract list

Former World Cup captain Kapil Dev backed BCCI's move, calling it a much-needed step to protect marquee first-class events like the Ranji Trophy. "A few players will suffer, but let it be", he said.

"I congratulate the BCCI for taking the much-needed step to protect the status of domestic cricket. I was sad to see domestic cricket being given the skip by players once they had established themselves in international cricket", the former captain said.

"It was high time the message was given and this strong step by the BCCI will go a long way in restoring the prestige of domestic cricket. I have always believed in the process of international players making themselves available to play for their respective states. It helps them extend their support to domestic players. Also, it is a nice way to pay back for the services rendered by the state association in grooming a player," he said.