Jamshedpur, June 19: The state Ranji team is all set to become stronger next season.

In what can be seen as a shot in the arm for Jharkhand State Cricket Association (JSCA), the BCCI has allowed two senior cricketers, who had been part of the state Ranji squad but had to leave for Indian Cricket League (ICL) matches, to participate in domestic tournaments.

Rajiv Kumar and Mihir Diwakar will, henceforth, take part in all state and national tournaments conducted by the JSCA and the BCCI. “We have received the letter from BCCI secretary today. Both Rajiv and Mihir will now be available for domestic tourneys and don the state jersey again,” said JSCA secretary Rajesh Verma.

Rajiv has captained Jharkhand while medium-pacer Mihir had played for Indian Cricket League (ICL) matches. The two, like some other cricketers of the country, recently showed their willingness to come back to the BCCI fold and have decided to snap ties with the rebel league. The BCCI had opened its doors for ICL players and they can now play for the board-sponsored matches. Over 100 cricketers had submitted their applications to play for the board.

The senior Jharkhand players have also informed about their availability for selection to the JSCA.

A solid middle-order batsman, Rajiv had been the backbone of both erstwhile Bihar and Jharkhand batting line-up. Once India probable, the Patna-based cricketer’s return to Jharkhand Ranji squad is a boon for the outfit, which is playing in the Plate Group (Lower Tier) for five years now. Rajiv is currently playing minor county in England.

Same is the case with Mihir, who originally hails from Siwan in Bihar. The right arm medium-pacer had been the spearhead of Bihar and the Ranji squad for some years now.