By Zainab Shafiq 
The 16th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is set to begin on March 31, 2023, and fans are eagerly awaiting the return of the world’s biggest T20 league. However, with a packed schedule, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly concerned about the fitness of Indian bowlers during the competition.
Given the grueling nature of the IPL, the BCCI has instructed all franchises to be cautious when it comes to overusing Indian bowlers. With a game nearly every day, fatigue and injury risks could threaten the national team ahead of the World Test Championship final and the ODI World Cup, both scheduled for the latter half of 2023.
According to an official from the BCCI, franchises have been informed to avoid over-bowling Indian team bowlers, instead focusing on strengthening and training. Fielding drills are allowed, but until the first week of May, franchises should not push the players. After the first week of May, those in contention for selection can gradually increase their bowling time in the nets, and the BCCI will communicate with all franchises again.
The BCCI will be keeping a close eye on many Indian bowlers participating in the IPL. The likes of Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Shami, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Deepak Chahar are among those who could be crucial for India in the upcoming matches. The governing body wants to rule out any injury problems, especially with many injuries already plaguing the side.
With the WTC final scheduled to take place from June 7, 2023, against Australia, the BCCI’s decision to be extra careful with Indian bowlers could prove beneficial for the national team. The board’s concern for player fitness and well-being is a priority, and franchises are expected to adhere to the guideline.
The BCCI’s directive to IPL franchises to use Indian bowlers with caution and avoid overusing them in the nets is a proactive measure aimed at ensuring player fitness and preventing injuries. With India’s packed cricket schedule ahead, it is essential to have players in the best possible shape. It remains to be seen how franchises will comply with the BCCI’s directive and how it will impact India’s performances in the IPL and beyond.