On Saturday, India’s head coach Ajit Agarkar and captain Rohit Sharma announced the squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The press conference was delayed by 2 hours as both Agarkar and Rohit Sharma were having an intense meeting. Just before the commencement of the press conference. Rohit Sharma hints at another meeting that is going to take place regarding the new BCCI policies.
Rohit Sharma on BCCI policies
Before the PC Rohit Sharma was unaware of the mic and it was turned on. During that he said, “Iske baad secretary ke saath mere ko baithna padega family wamily discuss karne ke liye,” (After the PC, we have to discuss family rules with the secretary, all the players are calling me”). Meaning that players are tensed over the new BCCI policies.
BCCI policy of family stay
According to reports, a BCCI source mentioned that “Indian cricketers lack discipline.” Gautam Gambhir and a senior player agree on the issue of family stays. Players will not be allowed to use personal transport for travelling during practice and matches. On a 45-day tour, family members can stay with players for only up to 14 days. For shorter foreign tours, immediate family can stay for up to a week.
- Family Travel Policy: Balances players’ personal well-being with team commitments.
- Eligibility: Players on overseas tours for more than 45 days can have partners and children (under 18) visit once per series for up to two weeks.
- Provisions: BCCI will pay for shared accommodation during the visit; players cover other expenses.
- Coordination: Visits must be planned during agreed-upon dates with the Coach, Captain, and GM Operations.
- Exceptions: Any changes to this policy need prior approval from Coach, Captain, and GM Operations. Extra expenses outside the visit period aren’t covered by BCCI.
Why new rules by BCCI?
Team India faced a 3-1 defeat against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, missing the chance to reach the World Test Championship Final at Lord’s. Captain Rohit Sharma and star batsman Virat Kohli were criticised for their lacklustre performance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and the overall disappointing 2024-25 Test cricket season.
