Yes, the cricket world is waiting for the India vs England series to resume. After two intense Tests in Hyderabad and Vizag, there was a lull before the storm as the teams enjoyed a week’s break. But, plenty happened.

Even as the buzz has been around the Rajkot Test, a BCCI diktat to players dominated the narrative on social media. Reports have suggested that BCCI was not happy with players skipping Ranji Trophy duties to prepare for IPL 2024.

Why should the players prioritise Ranji Trophy? Yes, the domestic red-ball tournament is part of Indian cricket’s rich tradition, but have the selectors rewarded Ranji Trophy performances while picking squads for the senior national teams? Go ask, Jalaj Saxena.

Also, where is the continuity in terms of selection? Avesh Khan, who was part of the first two Tests, has not been picked for the remainder of the series. Why no place for Cheteshwar Pujara?

Yes, India’s envious domestic structure is something that needs to be preserved. But at what cost?

Akshay Ramesh, Saurabh Kumar and Kingshuk Kusari discuss why it’s not entirely right to blame players in the latest episode of the Sledging Room.

We answer this in the Sledging Room!

Tune in!

Produced by Sachin Dwivedi