BCCI Issues Guidelines For Indian Cricket Team: Mandates Participation In Domestic Tournaments, Limits Family Presence

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has issued a set of 10 guidelines for centrally contracted players following a recent review meeting that analysed India’s disappointing performance in Australia, Indian Express reported.

Among the key mandates, players must now participate in domestic tournaments to remain eligible for selection. Additionally, new restrictions have been introduced concerning family travel, personal staff, ad shoots, and early departures from tours.

The BCCI has emphasised strict adherence to these rules, warning that non-compliance could result in disciplinary action, including bans from board-conducted tournaments like the Indian Premier League (IPL) and deductions in annual contracts and match fees. Any exceptions must receive prior approval from the head coach and the chief selector.

This policy shift comes in response to concerns over team cohesion and discipline, particularly after India’s 3-1 loss in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The review meeting, attended by BCCI officials, captain Rohit Sharma, head coach Gautam Gambhir, and chief selector Ajit Agarkar, examined various aspects beyond player performance, including team atmosphere and commitment levels.

A significant directive reinforces the importance of domestic cricket participation. This marks the second time in a year that the BCCI has mandated players to feature in domestic tournaments.

Despite previous advisories, senior players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja skipped the Duleep Trophy ahead of the Test season. However, following the latest review, players such as Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill have committed to playing Ranji Trophy matches, while the participation of other senior players remains uncertain.

The BCCI has also restricted personal staff like chefs, security personnel, and stylists from accompanying players on tours. Additionally, all players must now travel exclusively on team buses, even when family members are present.

The board has reinstated its pre-Covid family travel policy, allowing players' families to join them for only 14 days on tours exceeding 45 days. Furthermore, practice sessions are now mandatory, ending the practice of optional training.

New commercial restrictions have also been imposed, prohibiting players from attending ad shoots and endorsement events during ongoing series. Additionally, players must stay with the team until the tour officially concludes, preventing early departures. However, the acceptance of these guidelines among players remains to be seen.