Board enforces strict ‘business-only’ rules despite team query
February 10, 2026: Team India opened their T20 World Cup 2026 campaign with a win over the United States, but the tournament has begun with a personal setback for the players. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has made it clear that families will not be allowed to stay with the squad during the World Cup. According to sources, the Indian team management sought clarification from the Board on whether wives and fiancées could travel and stay with the team, but the request was turned down. Families may travel independently, officials said, but will not be accommodated with the players.
The restriction follows guidelines introduced after India’s disappointing Border-Gavaskar Trophy tour of Australia. Under the revised policy, players are allowed family visits for a maximum of 14 days only if an overseas tour extends beyond 45 days. While players had greater flexibility during the COVID-19 period, the rules were tightened last year to limit distractions and reinforce discipline within the squad.
To offset the absence of family support, the team will travel via private charter throughout the tournament. Some players have also retained personal chefs, though they must stay in separate nearby hotels and deliver meals to the team. The move reflects the BCCI’s emphasis on focus and control after recent high-pressure setbacks, raising questions over whether the strict environment will sharpen India’s edge or test players’ mental resilience over the long tournament.