Strict 10-Point Policy Introduced to Strengthen Team Discipline Ahead of Champions Trophy
February 15: In a significant move aimed at enhancing discipline, unity, and team environment, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has introduced a new 10-point policy, set to take effect from the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025. This decision follows reports of a “divided team environment” during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, prompting the board to tighten regulations—some of which directly impact head coach Gautam Gambhir.
🚨 Gautam Gambhir’s Personal Assistant Barred from Team Hotel
One of the most notable new rules bans personal assistants (PAs) or managers of support staff from traveling with players on the team bus or staying at the same hotel as the squad.
This directly affects head coach Gautam Gambhir, as his personal assistant, who was a regular presence during the Australia tour, has now been moved to a different hotel, as per PTI reports.
“The personal secretary of a member of the coaching staff, who was regularly seen staying at the team hotel, now stays at a different facility even though he has been seen at every venue during the England home series,” a BCCI official confirmed.
BCCI sources had earlier raised concerns about unauthorized individuals gaining access to hospitality boxes, team meetings, and private discussions.
“Why was his PA sitting in the car meant for national selectors? They can’t even discuss things in private with an unknown third person in the car. Why was he allotted space in the BCCI’s hospitality box in Adelaide?” an irritated BCCI official questioned after the Australia tour.
Additionally, Gambhir was the only coaching staff member with a personal assistant during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, making him the sole target of this new restriction.
🚫 No Family, No Personal Chefs, No Private Stylists Allowed
The new BCCI policy also restricts players from having family members, wives, or partners accompany them during the Champions Trophy.
✅ If an exception is granted, the player must cover all travel and accommodation expenses for their family.
❌ Personal chefs, hairstylists, and private agents are banned from staying in the team hotel.
These rules, which were not strictly enforced earlier, are now officially part of BCCI’s revised code of conduct.
🎯 Why Is BCCI Implementing These Rules?
🔹 To Strengthen Team Unity: Reports from the Border-Gavaskar Trophy suggested internal divisions.
🔹 To Prevent Dressing Room Leaks: Confidential discussions have frequently been leaked to the media.
🔹 To Maintain Professionalism: Ensuring only essential personnel travel with the team.
🔹 To Improve Focus: By limiting distractions from family members and personal staff.
📌 What’s Next for Team India?
With the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 set to begin in Dubai from February 19, these new rules will be closely monitored. Players and coaching staff must adhere to the updated team protocols as India prepares to compete for another ICC title.
It remains to be seen how these new restrictions impact team morale and whether the measures lead to improved performance on the field.
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Gautam Gambhir, BCCI New Rules, Team India Discipline, Champions Trophy 2025, India Cricket News, Cricket Dressing Room Leaks, BCCI Guidelines, ICC Champions Trophy, Team India Management, Cricket Controversy