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After India’s consecutive series defeats against New Zealand and Australia, and a steady decline in the quality of cricket on the pitch which started with a rare ODI-series loss against Sri Lanka, some punitive actions were anticipated at the hands of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) so that the situation of the players on the pitch can improve.
The cricketing community saw some kind of action which BCCI took recently with the release of a 10-point diktat for players streamlining everything they do on and off the pitch; from cricket to their respective families involvement during the foreign tours. Reactions poured in over this 10-point mandate ever since its announcement. However, it’s only now that the true nature of these new rules is revealed.
What are the BCCI’s 10-point guidelines?
The BCCI has introduced new guidelines aimed at strengthening team cohesion and discipline. Players are now required to participate in domestic cricket to remain eligible for national selection, with exceptions only granted in extraordinary circumstances. The board has also emphasized team travel, disallowing individual arrangements unless approved by the Head Coach and Selection Committee Chairman. Personal staff, including hairdressers or nannies, are banned from tours unless authorized by the BCCI. Players must remain with the team until the end of a series or tour, promoting bonding and continuity. Disciplinary actions, such as suspensions or fines, will be imposed for non-compliance. A new family travel policy allows players’ families to join tours lasting over 45 days, with the BCCI covering shared accommodation costs. Additionally, players must adhere to baggage limits, attend full practice sessions, avoid personal endorsements during tours, and prioritize BCCI activities.
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Rohit Sharma and Ajit Agarkar’s reaction on the new rules
The chief selector of the Indian cricket team Ajit Agarkar and captain of the Indian team Rohit Sharma recently made their first public appearance since these guidelines got released by the BCCI. On being asked their views on the new rules, the two stalwarts of Indian cricket made some astonishing comments which highlighted the true nature of the new rules.
“Who has told you about these rules? Has it come from the official handle? Let it come, and we will talk,” Rohit said, while being visibly irritated with the reporter who asked him about the new guidelines during the press-conference.
Agarkar’s reaction too was far from ideal and it equally astonished the cricketing community. “I think every team has some rules in place. We have spoken about various things you see over the last few months where we can improve as a team and get a bit closer as a team. We have seen in the last few months the need for some changes, more bonding in the team,” the former Indian pacer said.
However, he additionally said it’s not like a school punishment for the players and the rules are meant to have some border in the team since these players are superstars in their own right.
“It’s not a school, it’s not a punishment. It’s just you have some rules and when you are playing for the national team, you just follow the rules. These are mature individuals. They are superstars in their own right in international sport. They know how to handle themselves,” Agarkar added further.
The Indian team is set to play against England in a five-match T20I and 3-match ODI series starting from January 22 before heading to the UAE to play their fixtures of the Champions Trophy 2025.
