Are BCCI schedules killing players? Lalit Modi rips into ‘outrageous scheduling’

Amid the packed schedule of the Indian men’s cricket team, former IPL chairman Lalit Modi has slammed the BCCI for what he called “outrageous scheduling”, warning that players are being pushed to the brink.

Modi’s remarks come amid reports that India head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Shubman Gill are unhappy with the scheduling of a Test against Afghanistan just days after the conclusion of IPL 2026, raising concerns over workload and recovery.

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Reacting to reports of senior players potentially being rested due to burnout, Modi urged the board to prioritise player welfare over commercial demands.

“I agree. The BCCI are killing their players with the hectic scheduling. Guys stop this outrageous scheduling you are putting the boys through. They need time with their families and JUST OFF TIME – you don’t need the money. I CREATED ANNUITY REVENUE which the world envy’s. You will never have to worry about that sitting on those chairs. Do something good with your decisions, for heaven’s sake. The welfare of the players is paramount. Don’t overwork them – that’s why I have said the Board should have a majority of players on it.

“Get a professional CEO for heaven’s sake. Pay a top salary and put human resources and SELF-DEVELOPMENT OF PLAYERS AT the HEART of the BCCI organisation. Work on upgrading stadiums and giving world-class fan experiences rather than working the players like MULES. Let the organisation get a HEART & SOUL,” Modi posted on X.

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The debate comes ahead of India’s upcoming Test against Afghanistan, a fixture that does not carry World Test Championship points, potentially allowing selectors to rotate the squad and manage player workload.