The Board of Control for Cricket in India is preparing to frame a retirement policy for Indian cricketers amid growing concerns over players retiring from domestic or international cricket to feature in overseas leagues. The recent example of Vijay Shankar has brought the matter into focus, with the board keen to ensure that Indian cricket’s structure and player participation guidelines remain protected in the evolving global T20 landscape.
Shortly after announcing his retirement from Indian cricket, Shankar made himself available for the Lanka Premier League and was subsequently signed by the Kandy Royals for the 2026 season. Over the years, several Indian cricketers have followed a similar path, including Dinesh Karthik, Yuvraj Singh, Unmukt Chand, Praveen Tambe and Irfan Pathan.
The matter is expected to be discussed during the upcoming online meeting of the Apex Council. As per the current rules, active Indian players, including international, domestic and IPL cricketers, are not allowed to participate in overseas T20 leagues. It remains to be seen whether the council decides to revise or retain the existing policy.
Appeals from Maldives and Fiji
Alongside the retirement policy discussion, the Board of Control for Cricket in India is also set to review requests for assistance from the cricket boards of Maldives and Fiji. Board members are expected to discuss the nature of support that can be provided to both governing bodies.
Additionally, the pending affiliation request submitted by the Andaman and Nicobar Islands will also be taken up during the virtual Apex Council meeting. Notably, there is no agenda item related to India’s T20I captaincy. Selection-related matters fall under the authority of the national selection committee and are not discussed by the Apex Council.
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