After rumours of a “divided” team following India’s defeat in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, the Board of Cricket Control in India (BCCI) decided to make strict changes in the guidelines for the Champions Trophy.
BCCI has announced a 10-point diktat and the restriction of family members or partners travelling with players for the Champions Trophy. The tournament will be the biggest event in men’s cricket this year, and India will eye the trophy as they try to snatch it from Pakistan who defeated India in the last edition of 2017 in the finals.
The policy is drafted to “promote discipline, unity, and a positive team environment,” making it mandatory for all the players to abide by the new guidelines. According to the report, “All players are required to stay for the entire duration of scheduled practice sessions and travel together to and from the venue. This rule ensures commitment and fosters a strong work ethic within the team.”
Though the BCCI is not ready to make any changes any time soon, they have made it clear that if the partner does travel, they won’t be covering any costs.
“Since the tour is of less than one month, families won’t be accompanying the players. But if exceptions are made, I think that individual will have to bear the full expenses as BCCI won’t be covering any cost.” the report mentioned.
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But the catch is, they have made no exceptions this time. Not even the coach Gautam Gambhir will be allowed to be accompanied by his personal assistant.
“Why was his PA sitting in the car specified 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?” a BCCI official told the media.
As a result of the BCCI’s new guidelines, the coach will also need to follow the rules strictly. The board also put restrictions on personal chefs, hair stylists and agents for the players. The personal agents will no longer be allowed to travel with the players or the coach in the team bus, nor will they be allowed to stay in the same hotel.
Also Read: 7 Star Players Who Ruled Out of ICC Champions Trophy 2025
