Published - | Updated - January 17, 2025 12:58 pm
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The BCCI has taken a decision to address the concerns over the performance and discipline of the Indian team. After the historic Test series loss against New Zealand at home and the Border-Gavaskar Trophy loss to Australia, the BCCI has imposed a strict policy following a string of disappointing results.
The Indian team’s recent struggles came after reports of dressing room differences and waning focus among the players. The BCCI held a high-level review meeting which included head coach Gautam Gambhir, captain Rohit Sharma and chief selector Ajit Agarkar. The result was a change in policy to ensure accountability and professionalism within the team.
Domestic cricket mandatory for national selection The new diktat from the BCCI is that it is mandatory for players to participate in domestic cricket to remain eligible for national selection and central contracts.
Players are now required to travel together during matches and practice sessions. Individual travel arrangements with family members are strongly discouraged. And strict baggage limits have been imposed in which any additional costs will have to be borne by the players themselves.
These include restrictions on personal staff accompanying players on tour, adhering to a full practice session schedule and a ban on personal shoots or advertisements during the series.
The BCCI has also introduced a controlled family travel policy which allows family visits only during long overseas tours under specified conditions.
Players are mandated to participate in official BCCI events and promotional activities. They are also required to stay with the team till the conclusion of the series even if matches end before the scheduled time.
Non-compliance with these guidelines may result in severe consequences including suspension from the Indian Premier League (IPL) and reduction in central contract retainers and match fees.
Players must travel with the team for all matches and practice sessions. Separate travel arrangements with families are not advised in order to maintain decorum within the team. Any player requiring an exception to the above will also require prior approval from the selection committee chairman and head coach.
Personal staff such as assistants, managers, cooks and security personnel will not be allowed during the tour. Any exceptions will require BCCI approval so as to cut down on the logistical workload.
The player is expected to inform the team management for any equipment transfer or transfer of any personal belongings or items to the Centre of Excellence (COE) in Bangalore. And any expenses on additional arrangements related to the above-mentioned things will be borne by the individual player.
Players can accompany their spouse or partner and children below the age of 18 for only one visit per series while playing away from home for a period exceeding 45 days.
The Indian Board will bear the cost of the player’s accommodation during these visits.
Any additional expenses will be the responsibility of the player to bear. Any visit should be fixed in advance for a one-time visit.
The dates of the visit must also be approved by the captain.
