The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has responded to the criticism it faced for introducing a new policy that restricted players’ families from travelling with them on tours. Former India captain Virat Kohli was perhaps the most famous critic of the policy.
He stated that those making the policy don’t understand the impact of having those you love in close quarters away from home. Kohli received support from another former India captain, Kapil Dev, who won the World Cup.
Policy of paramount importance, says Saikia
In reply, BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia has stated that these new policies will continue and are for the betterment of the team. Some people may disagree, but the board has chosen its course.
“At this stage, the current policy will remain intact, as it is of paramount importance to both the nation and our institution, the BCCI,” Saikia told Cricbuzz. “The BCCI recognizes that there may be some resentment or differing opinions, as in a democratic setup, people are entitled to express their views,” Saikia added.
BCCI family policy, not new
He added that the BCCI has taken everything into account and that policy has been in effect for almost 5 decades now. And it’s not just players but everyone involved with Team India.
“The policy is applied uniformly to all team members – players, coaches, managers, support staff, and everyone involved – and has been implemented with the best interests of everyone in mind. This policy has not been formulated overnight; it has been in place for decades, dating back to the playing days of our president, Roger Binny – and possibly even earlier,” Saikia said.
Special exemption
As of now, players can bring family for two weeks on tours which will run for 45 days or now. For shorter tours, that period will be reduced to one week, and if the players go overboard, they’ll have to pay for it. However, one can, under special circumstances, get some relaxation.
“The BCCI has increased the duration of family members’ stay with players during overseas tours, with provisions for relaxing the norms under special circumstances, but this will be done through a proper process,” he said.
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