Every young player in India dreams of one thing — wearing the state or national jersey and representing the country.
You practice every day, play local matches, and give your best — but the big question is:
👉 “How do I actually get selected in a state or national cricket team?”
The journey isn’t easy, but it’s not impossible either.
With the right training, exposure, and mindset, you can turn your cricket dream into reality.
Here’s a complete guide to help you understand how selection works and what steps you can take — shared with insights from CareerInCricket.com, India’s cricket career guidance platform.
Step 1: Join a Good Cricket Academy
Your cricket journey starts with proper coaching.
A good academy doesn’t just teach you how to bat or bowl — it helps you understand the game, improve discipline, and perform under pressure.
- Choose a BCCI-recognized or reputed academy.
- Make sure it offers match exposure and qualified coaches.
- Learn to play in both turf and matting pitch conditions.
If you don’t know where to start, visit CareerInCricket.com — there you can explore verified academies across India with details like location, facilities, and coaching quality.
Step 2: Play District-Level Matches
After joining an academy, your next target should be district-level cricket.
Every state has a District Cricket Association (DCA) under the State Cricket Board.
👉 Perform well in local tournaments organized by your academy or school.
👉 Attend official district trials and give consistent performances.
👉 Once selected in your district team, you become eligible for state selection.
Remember, selectors always watch players who perform regularly and show teamwork.
Step 3: Perform in State-Level Tournaments
This is the stage where competition becomes serious.
Players who perform at the district level are shortlisted for state-level tournaments like:
Under-16, Under-19, or Under-23 State Championships
Ranji Trophy (Senior Men)
Senior Women’s State Matches
Your goal here should be consistent performance, not just one good inning or spell.
Selectors prefer players who perform well in different conditions and formats.
Step 4: Develop a Cricketer’s Mindset
Talent gets you noticed, but attitude gets you selected.
Selectors look for players who are disciplined, focused, and coachable.
Tips to build a strong cricket mindset:
- Always respect your coach and teammates.
- Stay calm even when you fail — consistency matters.
- Learn to adapt your game depending on match situations.
- Keep improving instead of comparing yourself with others.
Step 5: Focus on Fitness and Diet
Modern cricket is 60% fitness and 40% skill.
Even the most talented players get dropped if they aren’t fit enough.
- Follow a proper routine:
- Morning runs and sprints
- Strength & endurance training
- Balanced diet with protein and hydration
- 7–8 hours of sleep daily - If you want to impress selectors, you must look and play like a professional athlete.
- Step 6: Attend Official State Trials
- Once you perform well at the district level, you’ll be called for state cricket trials.
During these trials: - Selectors evaluate your skill, match awareness, and temperament.
- Selectors evaluate your skill, match awareness, and temperament.
Be confident but not overconfident.
Always carry your own kit, whites, and ID proofs.
Arrive early and warm up properly.
Even if you’re not selected in your first trial — don’t give up.
Most players who make it big faced multiple rejections before getting their chance.
Step 7: Move Towards National Level
If you shine in state tournaments, you can be selected for:
Zonal tournaments (like Duleep or Deodhar Trophy)
BCCI age-group competitions (U-19, U-23, etc.)
India A or Emerging Teams
And ultimately, the Indian National Team
Selectors from BCCI and state boards track performances regularly — if you’re consistent, your name will be noticed.
Pro Tips from CareerInCricket.com
💡 Practice regularly with match situations in mind.
💡 Participate in open trials or camps whenever possible.
💡 Build your cricket portfolio (stats, videos, certificates).
💡 Stay updated on new opportunities via CareerInCricket.com — where upcoming trials, academies, and selection guides are posted regularly.
Conclusion
Getting selected for the state or national cricket team is not just about talent — it’s about discipline, patience, and consistency.
Every big player you see today started small — from school grounds and local tournaments just like you.
Keep practicing, keep believing, and most importantly — stay ready when your opportunity arrives.
Because the next name on that state team list… could be yours. 🏆
👉 For trial updates, academy listings, and career guidance, visit CareerInCricket.com — your trusted partner in building a real cricket career.
