Sunil Gavaskar pushes for one-month rest period in cricket calendar, links player rotation to ‘Indian cap discount’

Sunil Gavaskar, Shubman Gill Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has urged the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to prioritize player welfare and ensure that centrally recruited cricketers get at least one month of continuous rest every year.His comments come after India completed the ODI series 3-0 over Afghanistan, shortly after the end of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season.Gavaskar acknowledged the role BCCI has played in supporting developing cricketing nations like Afghanistan, Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka through bilateral series. However, he said the health and fitness of the Indian players should remain a priority despite the busy cricket calendar.In his column for Mid-Day, Gavaskar said, “Yes, the BCCI is like an elder brother to countries like Afghanistan, Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka and has always tried to help them grow on the field and boost their finances by touring those countries. However, the health and fitness of our cricketers is also key and there should be a clear and carefree talent for our players this year.” players but it cheapens India’s cap must not be awarded as the player replaces an unseated player who is rested.The former opener also questioned the growing practice of resting senior players to manage workload. According to Gavaskar, India should field their strongest available side whenever possible.He pointed to India’s recent Test against Afghanistan where Shubman Gill and KL Rahul scored centuries.“In the Test against Afghanistan, who were fair triers but nothing more, Shubman Gill and KL Rahul scored centuries and Manav Suthar made an impressive debut. Jasprit Bumrah was rested, but he wouldn’t want to add a fifer or a tenfer against this team. When India play, then they have to play the best team, unless of course there are injuries, because of course so many injuries have to appear. on the calendar and you will see India play somewhere else every month.”Gavaskar made it clear that he supports more opportunities for younger players through India A and Under-19 cricket, but believes the senior players should be given a proper break from the game.“Yes, by all means have the ‘A’ team and U-19 matches to give the young players opportunity and experience, but please spare our elite players and make sure they get at least a month’s break a year as a team and not just as individuals.”He added that the current schedule cannot be changed, but suggested that future planning include a mandatory break for players and even fans.“This year’s schedule is already done and nothing can be changed, but since IPL is being considered to start and end early next year, please add a month’s rest not only to the players but also to the fans of Indian cricket.”India’s next assignment is a two-match T20I series against Ireland in Belfast before the team travels to England for five T20Is and three ODIs from July 1.`