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The Champions Trophy 2025 is around the corner with preparations of the participating teams in full swing. However, amidst the coveted ICC tournament’s arrival, the Indian camp is still clouded with the controversial decision that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) took after India’s defeat against Australia in the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
The decision that BCCI took centered around player conduct during overseas tours and guidelines for players around bringing family and other acquaintances during such events. Over time, the board has toned down a bit on the guidelines but has not taken its verdict back. Despite this, a PTI report suggested that a senior Indian team player approached the board to make an exception, but the board rejected it.
BCCI’s toned-down stance on bringing players’ peers during overseas tours
In a new development, the BCCI appears firm in its original stance but may allow certain exceptions regarding player accommodations for the Champions Trophy. According to the PTI report, while the board remains steadfast in its policy, players wishing to bring their families along will have to cover the expenses themselves.
According to the report, a senior Team India player recently sought an exemption, hoping for special consideration, but his request was ultimately denied, reinforcing the board’s strict approach to the matter.
“If anything changes then it is different, but as of now, the players are unlikely to be accompanied by their wives or partners for this tour. One of the senior players had enquired about it and he was told that the policy decision will be followed, since the tour is of less than one month, families won’t be accompanying the players. But if exceptions are made, I think that individual will have to bear the full expenses as the BCCI won’t be covering any cost,” a BCCI source told PTI.
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What was BCCI’s 10-point diktat?
The BCCI had implemented new guidelines to enhance team cohesion, discipline, and commitment to domestic cricket. Under these regulations, players must participate in domestic tournaments to remain eligible for national selection, with exemptions granted only in exceptional cases. The board has also reinforced strict team travel protocols, prohibiting individual arrangements unless specifically approved by the Head Coach and Selection Committee Chairman. Additionally, personal staff, such as hairdressers and nannies, will no longer be allowed on tours without prior authorization from the BCCI.
To foster team bonding and continuity, players are required to stay with the squad until the completion of a series or tour. Non-compliance with these rules may result in disciplinary actions, including fines or suspensions. The BCCI had also introduced a revised family travel policy, permitting players’ families to join tours exceeding 45 days, with shared accommodation costs covered by the board. Furthermore, players must adhere to baggage restrictions, attend full practice sessions, refrain from personal endorsements during tours, and prioritize BCCI-related activities. These measures aim to maintain professionalism, focus, and unity within the team.
