Gujarat Cricket Association Introduces Five-Year Domicile Rule for Local Players

The Gujarat Cricket Association (GCA) has formally introduced a five-year domicile requirement for cricketers to be considered ‘local’ in state‑level competitions. Under the new regulation, a player must have lived continuously in Gujarat for at least five years before being eligible for selection as a homegrown talent. The move aims to strengthen the development pipeline for indigenous players and reduce reliance on external recruits. GCA officials said the rule will be enforced from the upcoming domestic season and will be monitored through documentation of residence and school or employment records. Critics argue the policy could limit opportunities for emerging talent from other regions, but the board maintains that it aligns with long‑term growth objectives for Gujarat cricket.