The BCCI has bowed to public pressure and confirmed that the Duleep Trophy final will be broadcast live, after facing a storm of criticism for keeping earlier rounds of the tournament in the dark. Fans were furious when neither the quarter-finals nor the semi-finals received live coverage, despite significant performances going unseen. Social media erupted with anger, with many calling it “shameful” and “disrespectful” to India’s premier domestic competition.
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia stepped in to clarify the situation, stating that an agreement with broadcasters already includes provisions for 100 days of domestic cricket coverage each season. He confirmed that the final, scheduled from September 11 to 15, would be shown live, describing it as part of the Board’s commitment to giving domestic players the visibility they deserve. According to Saikia, the earlier blackout was not a matter of negligence but a scheduling gap, which the final’s telecast will correct.
The outrage highlighted just how much domestic cricket means to Indian fans. While the IPL dominates television screens, many argue that tournaments like the Duleep Trophy are crucial for spotting talent and testing players in competitive conditions. In recent years, live-streaming and TV coverage have helped fans connect with emerging stars—whether it’s a young batter grinding out a double century or a pacer running through batting lineups. Missing out on such moments robbed supporters of the chance to follow and celebrate upcoming cricketers.
The decision to telecast the final is now seen as a way for the BCCI to restore some goodwill. It also underscores a bigger shift—fans no longer accept selective coverage when global leagues broadcast everything down to warm-up games. The Board’s earlier silence only fueled suspicion that domestic cricket wasn’t being prioritized. The U-turn shows that fan voices still hold weight in shaping Indian cricket’s future.
As the final approaches, the focus will now turn back to the field. The players will finally get the platform they deserve, and selectors will have a clearer view of standout performances. For the fans, it’s redemption too—they’ll be able to witness the drama, skill, and intensity of a tournament that has historically produced legends.
In many ways, this episode is a reminder that cricket’s heartbeat lies as much in its grassroots and domestic circuits as in its glitzy global tournaments. With the BCCI finally stepping up, the Duleep Trophy final promises to be more than just a title decider—it will stand as proof that domestic cricket still matters and deserves its place in the spotlight.
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