Former India chief selector MSK Prasad has issued a strong reminder to current chairman Ajit Agarkar, urging him to maintain sensitivity while dealing with senior stars like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma amid the ongoing debate surrounding domestic cricket participation.
Prasad warned that selectors must be cautious when setting expectations for icons of the game, stressing, “You shouldn’t be messing with the minds of big players.” His comments come at a time when reports indicate that the BCCI wants top Indian players to feature in domestic tournaments to maintain form, especially ahead of key international assignments.
Prasad highlighted that selectors should understand the stature and workload of seasoned cricketers before making public or repeated demands about domestic appearances. According to him, the relationship between selectors and senior players should always be built on clarity and mutual respect.
Dhoni Example Used as Benchmark
Drawing from his tenure as chief selector from 2016 to 2020, Prasad referenced MS Dhoni to explain how communication with legendary players must be handled. He stated plainly, “We never spoke to MS Dhoni about domestic cricket.” Instead, Dhoni made decisions independently based on what he felt was best for his game and his team. Prasad believes this autonomy preserved Dhoni’s confidence and prevented unnecessary pressure.
He added that experienced cricketers understand their roles and responsibilities better than anyone else. Forcing conversations about domestic cricket repeatedly, he explained, may create confusion rather than improving performance. This is why, Prasad emphasized, clear policies and expectations must be set upfront so that selectors and players operate on the same page.
Call for Clarity, Inspiration, and a Balanced Approach
Prasad also acknowledged the positive impact that senior players can have when they choose to represent their state sides. He said their presence can lift the morale of younger players, remarking that their participation “will also inspire the young players in the state teams.” However, he insisted this participation should be encouraged thoughtfully, not demanded without context.
What matters most, Prasad said, is transparent communication. Either selectors should clearly state expectations from all players—including seniors—or enforce a uniform “perform-or-perish policy” that leaves no room for ambiguity. Without such clarity, he warned, misunderstandings may arise unnecessarily.
Prasad concluded that while domestic cricket is important, the decision-making process for veteran players must be respectful, well-timed, and free from excessive pressure. Their experience, legacy and physical workload must be factored in before any directive is imposed.
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