India has a strong domestic cricket system, and performances in tournaments like the Ranji Trophy and Duleep Trophy often play an important role in selection.
The BCCI has also asked Indian players to play domestic cricket when they are available. However, some players have continued to perform well in domestic cricket for years without getting a proper chance at the international level. From Sarfaraz Khan and Abhimanyu Easwaran to Dharmendrasinh Jadeja, these players have impressive numbers but are still waiting for a regular place in the Indian team. Here are five domestic stars who have been waiting for their big chance. In this article, we will discuss about 5 such players.
1. Sarfaraz Khan: Why has he not got a regular Test place?
Sarfaraz Khan has already made his Test debut for India. He played his first Test in 2024, but he has featured in only six Test matches since then. One of the problems has been his batting position. Sarfaraz has often been moved around the batting order when he has got a chance.
His first-class record, however, is very strong. He has scored runs at an average of around 64 in first-class cricket. Sarfaraz has also worked on his fitness and lost weight in recent years. Despite this, he has not got as many chances as his domestic record suggests he could have received.
2. Shahbaz Ahmed: Can his all-round skills help India?
Shahbaz Ahmed has already played three ODIs and two T20Is for India. However, he is still waiting for a chance in Test cricket. The Bengal all-rounder can make an impact with both bat and ball. In 43 first-class matches, Shahbaz has taken 146 wickets and scored 2,493 runs.
He is also trying to make an impact in the Duleep Trophy 2026 and will hope his performances can bring him back into the national selection picture.
3. Abhimanyu Easwaran: How long has he been waiting for India?
Abhimanyu Easwaran has been one of the most consistent batters in Indian domestic cricket for many years. He made his first-class debut in 2013 and has played 114 first-class matches. He has scored 8,396 runs at an average of 47. His record also includes 27 centuries and 36 half-centuries.
Easwaran has been part of the Indian Test setup and has travelled with the team, but he is still waiting to play his first Test for India. Now 30, he has spent years waiting for the chance to wear the India Test jersey and show what he can do at the highest level.
4. Dharmendrasinh Jadeja: Can 400+ wickets earn him an India call-up?
Dharmendrasinh Jadeja has one of the strongest bowling records among India's domestic players. He made his first-class debut in 2013 and has taken an incredible 423 wickets in 100 first-class matches.
His numbers are also impressive in the shorter formats. He has 121 List A wickets and 65 T20 wickets.Despite playing domestic cricket for more than a decade and taking more than 400 first-class wickets, he is yet to play for India.
His record makes him one of the most experienced domestic bowlers still waiting for an international opportunity.
5. Shams Mulani: Why is this Mumbai all-rounder still waiting?
Shams Mulani is regarded as one of Mumbai's top all-rounders in domestic cricket.
He has shown his value with both bat and ball. In 59 first-class matches, Mulani has taken 269 wickets and scored 2,577 runs. He has also scored one century and 22 half-centuries in first-class cricket.
Mulani had another strong Ranji Trophy season in 2025-26, taking 30 wickets in seven matches. Despite his consistent performances over the years, he is still waiting for a regular chance with the Indian team.
These five players have continued to perform in domestic cricket and have built strong records over the years. While some have already played international cricket, others are still waiting for their first chance. Their performances show that India's domestic system has several experienced players who could be worth watching for future Test selection.
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