MSK Prasad wants to limit player workload in IPL ahead of the World Cup

As the Indian cricket team gear up for the home series against Australia, chief India selector MSK Prasad has said that the BCCI selection committee has narrowed down a group of 18 individuals who are in the fray to make the squad for the 2019 ICC ODI World Cup. However, Prasad added that the selectors will keep a close eye on these players in the upcoming 12th edition of the Indian Premier League in order to ensure that they remain fresh for the World Cup to follow.

"We have shortlisted 18 players and we will rotate them before selecting the final World Cup squad. As far as workload management is concerned, it is yet to be worked out. There are discussions happening on that front and we will let you know," Prasad told PTI reporters after he revealed the different squads for the series against Australia.

It remains to be seen if franchises will agree to BCCI demands to rest important players during the tournament having paid millions to secure their signature. BCCI acting secretary Amitabh Choudhary admitted that the franchises have different views on the matter.

"If your question suggests that the franchises will be wary of resting players, it is an issue we will deal with considering it's a World Cup year. There have been views from franchises and I am not going into specifics. Also considering the fact that all the franchises are Indian franchises, the interest of the country, of doing well at the highest international level, is paramount," Choudhary said.