"New regulations may limit players' family stays and tighten coach privileges after India's poor Test campaign in Australia."
January 14, 2025: In the aftermath of Team India's underwhelming Test series in Australia, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly set to implement stricter rules. These measures, aimed at improving discipline and focus during tours, include curbing family stays and enforcing stricter guidelines for coaching staff.
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According to a report in Dainik Jagran, the BCCI plans to restrict players' families, particularly spouses, to staying with them for only two weeks during a 45-day tour. The board believes prolonged family presence impacts players' focus and performance during overseas tours.
Additionally, the BCCI has mandated that all players must travel in the team bus to ensure unity and discourage lone travel. The board has also introduced cost-saving measures, stipulating that players will bear the expenses for excess luggage beyond 150 kg during air travel.
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Restrictions for Gautam Gambhir
Tougher rules may also impact head coach Gautam Gambhir and his manager Gaurav Arora. The manager will reportedly no longer be allowed to stay at the team hotel, sit in the VIP box, or accompany Gambhir in the team bus or convoy vehicles. These measures aim to maintain a professional environment within the team.
Key Discussions
A meeting between India's Test and ODI captain Rohit Sharma, head coach Gautam Gambhir, and selection committee chief Ajit Agarkar with BCCI officials reportedly addressed these proposed regulations. Discussions also focused on limiting the tenure of support staff to three years, as performances have stagnated under the current team management.
The future of key players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma was also on the agenda, along with potential changes in the coaching staff as India prepares for upcoming international challenges.
Tags:
BCCI, Team India, Gautam Gambhir, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Ajit Agarkar, Australia tour, Test cricket, coaching staff, family policy, cricket regulations.