Sources said board members had an initial discussion in this regard. India will play New Zealand at home - on what are sure to be turning tracks - from September 22 onwards. "It's natural that the Test match at home will be played on a turning track and the final of the Duleep Trophy is an ideal scenario to get some match practice," BCCI sources said.
TOI reported on July 13 that Kohli and Co. could be part of the Duleep Trophy following the BCCI's decision to shelve the mini-Indian Premier League, which was scheduled in September. The Duleep has acquired importance since it is being played with a pink ball and inputs from leading cricketers will help BCCI to decide if day-night Test cricket in India is a way forward.
A senior functionary of the board told TOI on Friday (August 26) that BCCI will have a dialogue with senior Test cricketers, who are currently in the US, before firming up their participation in the Duleep Trophy.
Some of the top players could also be seen in the third match of the Duleep Trophy tournament between India Green and Blue from September 4 to 7.
The board is also interested in knowing how long the shine of the pink ball will last on the turning tracks at home. The opening match wickets was a perfect sporting track, offering purchase for both medium pacers and spinners. Incidentally, the pitch which was used in the opening game will be used for the final.
India Green player Parthiv Patel, however, had reservations about the green cover on the pitch. "In subcontinent conditions, I don't think an international game will be played with this much of grass on the pitch. I have been seeing Test cricket for quite a few years and I don't remember it being played on a green top in home conditions. Ideally, we shouldn't be playing on green-top pitches. There is definitely home advantage and we should be taking it."
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