The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has issued strict guidelines for players on discipline and unity within the team, following a poor Test season. In fact, the board responded to the question of personal chefs by offering to send two chefs on long trips to meet the nutritional needs of the players.
India suffered a 1-3 defeat in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 and a 0-3 defeat against New Zealand in the home Test series. After the defeat, the coaching staff and players came under scrutiny. The committee held a review meeting with head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Rohit Sharma.
The BCCI has introduced 10-point disciplinary guidelines to encourage discipline, unity and a positive team environment. With this step, we aim to support professional standards, improve team operations and ensure better performance on tour.
BCCI Proposes Solution to ‘No Personal Chefs’ Policy
The BCCI has decided to ban players from bringing their personal chefs on tours, a practice followed by some players, including Virat Kohli, KL Rahul and Hardik Pandya, for customized meals.
According to the Times of India, the board suggested sending two personal chefs to cook meals for the entire team to meet the team’s nutritional needs. Players are now considering whether this solution will meet their nutritional needs.
“The team got an option in which the board of directors will organize two cooks for the needs of the players. However, there will be a discussion on the specific needs of the players and what else could be done,” said a BCCI source.
Over the past six to seven years, more players have hired personal chefs to prepare meals for their specific diet plans, which are designed to maintain optimal fitness. These chefs do not stay in team hotels, but are provided accommodation with kitchen facilities, delivering meals to the players at the hotel.
One of the concerns raised by the board during the review meeting was the presence of personal chefs in the team dining room, where only players and coaching staff are allowed.
“The problem is whether two chefs can cook personalized meals for so many players. The players have their favorite foods and recipes that complement each other according to the suggested diet. Some may miss local food on long tours and the chefs design the menu accordingly,” he said. source.
“Certain players have to be extra careful about their diet, especially if they have recovered from serious injuries that require them to watch their weight and other vitals. These chefs are very careful about the quality of the ingredients used in cooking the dishes. The BCCI is trying to go around to ensure top quality food for their players,” the source added.
BCCI allows exceptions for personal chefs with necessary approvals
If the player seeks approval from the coach, captain and board, a personal chef could be allowed to deliver meals to a hotel concierge, where the player can pick them up and have them served to hotel staff.
This decision will depend on how flexible the BCCI is in accommodating the dietary needs of the players. Some players, especially those recovering from injuries, have to watch their diet carefully, and personal chefs ensure that high-quality ingredients are used in their meals.
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