The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly set to enforce stricter protocols regarding cricketers’ family time and travel arrangements during tours.
These measures are said to aim at maintaining team discipline and focus, especially during high-pressure series.
What are the Restrictions?
Family Visits:
On tours lasting 45 days or more, players’ immediate families (partners and children) can only join them after the first two weeks and can stay for a maximum of 14 days.
For tours shorter than 45 days, family visits are limited to one week or less.
Team Travel:
Cricketers must travel exclusively on the team bus, with no exceptions. Violations of this policy were reportedly observed on recent tours.
Luggage Limits:
The BCCI will cover up to 150 kg of luggage per player, which is considered ample given that a cricket kit typically weighs around 40 kg.
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Reason for the Changes
The BCCI had previously relaxed these restrictions during the pandemic to accommodate families in biosecure bubbles. However, with normalcy restored, the board is reinstating its pre-COVID protocols.
Family Travel Costs
While the BCCI does not cover family travel expenses, it has historically paid for their accommodation, and this policy remains unchanged.
Cricketers’ Reactions
While no cricketers have officially responded to the new protocols, differing opinions on family time during tours have been a recurring topic. In 2018, former captain Virat Kohli advocated for relaxed family visit rules, reflecting the mixed views on this issue.
Additional Context
Reports suggest that these changes were communicated to Test and ODI captain Rohit Sharma, head coach Gautam Gambhir, and selector Ajit Agarkar, though no official announcement has been made.
As the policies are reinstated, balancing family time with team responsibilities will remain a focal point for Indian cricket.
