In a significant move aimed at strengthening discipline and accountability within the Indian cricket team, Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has introduced new guidelines regarding player behavior and family presence during tours. This decision comes after recent disappointing performances, including a 1-3 defeat in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy vs Australia and a 0-3 defeat New Zealand.
Review nnew guidelines
From 14 January 2025 BCCI has implemented several key regulations for Team India players and their families:
- Limited family presence: Spouses and family members will now only be able to accompany players for a maximum of 14 days during tours of 45 days or longer. For shorter tours, family visits will be limited to seven days.
- Mandatory team travel: All players must travel together on team buses, regardless of their seniority. This rule also applies to support staff, including the head coach Gautam Gambhirwhose manager will no longer have access to team facilities such as VIP boxes or hotels.
- Additional baggage charges: Players will be responsible for covering any additional baggage costs that exceed 150kg, promoting a simpler approach to travel.
These guidelines were discussed in a recent meeting attended by BCCI officials, Gambhir and the chief selector Ajit Agarkar. The committee aims to encourage greater unity among players and ensure that disruptions during tours are kept to a minimum.
Reasoning behind the changes
BCCI’s decision is based on concerns over the team’s performance and internal dynamics. Reports indicate that the presence of the players’ families, esp Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharmaduring previous tours they may have contributed to distractions, affecting team cohesion. The board’s initiative seeks to instill a sense of responsibility among the players, especially after unconvincing results on the international stage.
Upcoming challenges for Team India
India will embark on a busy schedule in the coming weeks, starting with a five-match T20I series against England on January 22, followed by a three-match ODI series. The team will then head to Pakistan on Champions trophy starting February 19. These new guidelines are expected to play a key role as India look to regroup and refocus ahead of these important matches.
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