BCCI to mandate Ranji appearances for Gill, Rahul before New Zealand Tests

The BCCI is preparing a directive requiring senior India players to play at least one domestic red-ball game before the two-Test series against New Zealand that begins on November 19. Shubman Gill could represent Punjab and KL Rahul could turn out for Karnataka in the 2026-27 Ranji Trophy, which starts on October 11.

Jasprit Bumrah may play a first-class match for India A rather than a Ranji fixture to manage his workload. The reported move follows the 0-3 home series whitewash against New Zealand in 2024, when players lacked sufficient red-ball preparation.

The BCCI medical team will have the final say on releases, with fitness and workload considered. Akash Deep and Nitish Kumar Reddy are among those whose fitness will be monitored closely before the tour.