The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided to take a hard line on the Indian team in response to their recent back-to-back series defeats against Australia and New Zealand. The document titled ‘Policy Document for Team India,’ which included ten-point team rules and strict repercussions for non-compliance, was sent to all contracted players. According to the BCCI, the document aims to ‘promote discipline, unity, and a positive team environment.’
The BCCI prepared the document based on the suggestions made by the senior leadership during a review meeting. The meeting, which was held shortly after the Indian team returned to the country following a 3-1 defeat in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy down under, included Indian captain Rohit Sharma, Head Coach Gautam Gambhir, and Chief Selector Ajit Agarkar among others.
Participation in Domestic Games Made Mandatory:
As per the new guidelines, participation in domestic games is compulsory for all players in order to be considered for selection and central contracts. The only exception to this rule will be for players ‘under extraordinary circumstances’, which must be approved by the chief selector. This was added to make sure the domestic circuit remains relevant to players at all levels, while also giving opportunities to young players to play alongside senior cricketers.
“This policy ensures that players remain connected to the domestic cricket ecosystem, fostering talent development, maintaining match fitness, and strengthening the overall domestic structure. It also inspires emerging players by providing them opportunities to compete alongside top cricketers, ensuring continuity in talent progression.”
Limited Family Presence on Tours
One of the ten points, and also the point that has stirred the most buzz, is the restrictions on players’ families accompanying them during away tours. Under the new policy, on tours lasting 45 days or more, players’ families, which includes their partners and children (up to 18 years of age) can only stay for a maximum of 14 days with them in a single visit. While the BCCI will cover the accommodation charges for the families, the player will take care of all other costs and arrangements.
For families to stay with the player for more than the allowed duration, a pre-approval must be taken from the coach, captain, and GM Operations. All the extended stay costs will also be the player’s responsibility.
Players to travel to venues with the team
The new policy mandates that players travel via the team bus to halt the growing trend of players traveling separately to touring countries, match venues, and even training sessions. According to the document, this step will ‘maintain discipline and team cohesion’ by having players spend more time with each other. Again, prior approvals are necessary for any deviation from the guidelines.
“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. Exceptions, if any, must be preapproved by the Head Coach and Chairman of the Selection Committee.”
No Extra Baggage or Personal Staff on the Tour
The new policy has laid constraints on carrying baggage that exceeds the ‘specified limits shared with the team’. In addition, the players have been restricted from bringing personal staff including but not limited to player managers, chefs, and security personnel on the tours, unless allowed by the board itself.
“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. This policy helps streamline logistics and avoid unnecessary expenses.”
“Personal staff (e.g., personal managers, chefs, assistants and security) are to be restricted on tours or series unless explicitly approved by the BCCI. This ensures that the focus remains on team operations and minimizes logistical challenges. – this has to be done away with.”
What are the consequences of not following these guidelines?
The document also mentioned heavy disciplinary action in case of non-compliance with the guidelines. These actions range from the deduction of retainers to cancellations of existing IPL or central contracts.
“The BCCI reserves the right to take disciplinary action against a player which may include sanction against the concerned player for participating in all BCCI conducted tournaments including the Indian Premier League and deduction from retainer amount/match fees under BCCI player contract.”
