Raina Vs BCCI: Star Player rakes up Issue again! - Will BCCI Answer Raina's Questions?

The debate over allowing Indian cricket players to play in foreign leagues has been doing rounds in social media in recent times. When Suresh Raina urged the BCCI to allow its players to participate in foreign leagues, he received much support including from fellow cricketers Robin Uthappa and Irfan Pathan.

As per the existing rules, an 'active Indian player' is only allowed to play domestic cricket and IPL. However, he can take part in foreign leagues once he retires from Indian cricket including IPL.

In conversation with cricketer-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra, Raina revealed why he wants to play in foreign leagues.

"It’s not about money. The money that we earn in IPL, we can’t get it anywhere. Even if we play foreign leagues for 10 years, we won’t be able to earn that much. The thing is when cricket (IPL) is over, players who aren’t contracted….give them a chance. We want to play one league or two leagues. We just want to play. Ranji Trophy standard isn’t of that quality now."

“We need match practice. If we sit at home for two months….even if we play domestic cricket..you won’t have that confidence. We want to play quality cricket. I am not playing for money. I am happy with money I have,” Raina added.

Earlier, Raina had asserted that the selectors did not give him any reason behind his exclusion after India's series against England in 2018. It was his last appearance for the country. He lashed out at the selectors stating that if any selection committee member has a problem regarding something then they should say it on his face rather than being silent on the matter.