BCCI Introduces Strict 10-Point Policy After Australia Series Loss

Discipline measures include mandatory domestic cricket, limited family presence on tours, and restrictions on personal endorsements during series.

January 17, 2025: In the aftermath of India’s dismal 1-3 Test series loss to Australia, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has unveiled a stringent 10-point policy aimed at fostering discipline and unity within the national team. The measures, reportedly advocated by head coach Gautam Gambhir during a recent review meeting, include mandatory participation in domestic cricket, restrictions on family and personal staff during tours, and a ban on individual endorsements during ongoing series.

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Non-compliance with the new regulations could result in harsh penalties, such as reductions in central contract retainers or bans from the Indian Premier League (IPL).

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Key Directives in the New Policy

1. Mandatory Domestic Cricket Participation
   Players must prioritize domestic matches to stay connected with grassroots cricket. Star players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, who have not participated in Ranji Trophy matches in years, are expected to lead by example.
2. Restrictions on Family Presence
   Families will be allowed to accompany players for only two weeks during overseas tours lasting over 45 days. Any deviations require prior approval from Gambhir and chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar.
3. Travel Protocols
   Players must travel with the team for matches and practice sessions to enhance team cohesion. The use of private charters or separate travel arrangements will be discouraged.
4. Personal Staff Limitations
   The presence of personal staff, including managers, chefs, and assistants, will be restricted unless explicitly approved by the BCCI.
5. Baggage Restrictions
   Players must adhere to specified baggage limits, capped at 150 kg for long tours. Excess baggage costs will be borne by the individual.
6. Practice Session Attendance
   Players are required to attend full practice sessions and travel to and from the venue with the team.
7. Ban on Individual Endorsements During Series
   Players are barred from participating in personal commercial shoots during an ongoing series to avoid distractions.
8. Mandatory Availability for Official Functions
   Players must attend BCCI-organized events and shoots, even if the series concludes early.
9. Equipment Transport Costs
   Players sending equipment separately to the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru must bear the additional costs.
10. Disciplinary Actions
    Violations of the policy could lead to sanctions, including IPL bans or financial penalties from player contracts.

Context of the Policy

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The measures follow a disastrous tour in which India surrendered the Border-Gavaskar Trophy for the first time in a decade. The team’s poor performance was preceded by a home series whitewash against a relatively weaker New Zealand side.

The BCCI believes these guidelines will instill a stronger work ethic and eliminate the “star culture” that has been blamed for the team’s recent shortcomings.

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