'No families, domestic cricket mandatory': BCCI issues strict guidelines for Team India players after Australia debacle

A new policy document released by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) lays out rules for members of the national team when they are playing for their nation. The general growth of cricket at all levels is the main objective of this program, which aims to create a more cohesive and professional team culture.

Mandatory domestic cricket participation, restrictions on family and personal staff attendance during tours, and a ban on individual endorsements during current series are some of the new BCCI regulations. The goal of these adjustments is to improve discipline and team cohesion while guaranteeing that players continue to give their all to their duties.

In order to improve team camaraderie, players will also no longer be permitted to bring their own vehicles to practices or games. Additionally, the number of family members that can travel with players will be strictly limited.

Following the Indian team's loss to Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, the BCCI conducted a comprehensive assessment and decided to make these modifications. Gautam Gambhir's coaching approach, the decision to rest Jasprit Bumrah, and the pitch preparation for the Mumbai Test were among the main topics of conversation. President Roger Binny, head coach Gambhir (who attended the meeting virtually), captain Rohit Sharma, and chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar were also there.

BCCI’s 10-point Policy For ‘Discipline And Unity’

Mandatory Domestic Participation

“Participation in Domestic Matches is mandatory for players to remain eligible for selection in the national team and for central contracts, as per BCCI guidelines."

Travel Policy

“All players are expected to travel with the team to and from matches and practice sessions. Separate travel arrangements with families are discouraged to maintain discipline and team cohesion."

Baggage Limitations

“Players are required to adhere to the specified baggage limits shared with the team. Any excess baggage costs will need to be borne by the individual player."

Restriction on Personal Staff

“Personal staff (e.g., personal managers, chefs, assistants, and security) are to be restricted on tours or series unless explicitly approved by the BCCI."

Equipment Logistics

“Players must coordinate with team management regarding equipment and personal items being sent to the Centre of Excellence, Bengaluru. Any additional costs incurred due to separate arrangements will be the player’s responsibility."

Practice Attendance

“All players are required to stay for the entire duration of scheduled practice sessions and travel together to and from the venue."

No Personal Shoots During Tours

“Players are not permitted to engage in personal shoots or endorsements during an ongoing series or tour."

Family Travel

“Players absent from India for more than 45 days during overseas tours can be joined by their partners and children (under 18) for one visit per series (format-wise) of up to a two-week period."

Official Engagements

“Players are required to be available for BCCI’s official shoots, promotional activities, and functions."

Match Completion Policy

“Players are required to stay with the team until the scheduled end of the match series or tour, regardless of whether matches conclude earlier than planned."

Compliance

“Non-compliance may lead to disciplinary action as deemed appropriate by the BCCI. Additionally, the BCCI reserves the right to take disciplinary action against a player which may include (i) sanction against the concerned player from participating in all BCCI conducted tournaments including the Indian Premier League; and (ii) deduction from retainer amount/match fees under BCCI Player contract."

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