(Image source from: AP)
The BCCI has implemented a new policy for senior cricketers in response to the team's poor performance against Australia. The policy restricts players from bringing their wives and girlfriends on extended tours, and prohibits them from engaging in personal endorsements or photo shoots during ongoing series or tours. Players are also discouraged from leaving practice sessions early, and must participate in BCCI-organized events. Failure to adhere to these rules may result in disciplinary actions, such as suspension or deduction from match or retainer fees. The BCCI aims to promote discipline and team unity by limiting the presence of players' families on tours longer than 45 days, allowing them to accompany the players for only two weeks.
The BCCI's central contract policy aims to keep players connected to domestic cricket, nurturing talent development, maintaining match fitness, and strengthening the overall domestic structure. It also provides emerging players chances to compete alongside top cricketers, ensuring a continuous talent pipeline. Any deviations from this policy will only be considered under exceptional circumstances and require formal notification and approval from the Selection Committee Chair, ensuring fairness and transparency. During tours or when families are with the players, the players will travel together instead of with their families.
The document states that players must travel with the team to and from matches and practices, as separate travel arrangements with families are discouraged to maintain discipline and team unity. Exceptions require prior approval from the Head Coach and Selection Committee Chairman. The policy also limits personal staff, such as managers, chefs, and security, from accompanying players on tours unless explicitly approved by the BCCI, to ensure the focus remains on team operations and minimize logistical challenges. Additionally, players are not allowed to leave training sessions early or tours/series midway, as the rules aim to foster commitment and a strong work ethic within the team.
The BCCI will provide shared accommodation for the players during the Visitors' Period, but all other expenses must be covered by the players themselves. The players are required to stay with the team until the scheduled end of the match series or tour, regardless of whether the matches conclude early. This ensures team unity, promotes bonding, and prevents disruption to the team's dynamics. Any exceptions or deviations from these guidelines must be pre-approved by the Chairman of the Selection Committee and Head Coach. Non-compliance may result in disciplinary action, including sanctions against the player's participation in BCCI-conducted tournaments, including the Indian Premier League, and deductions from their retainer amount or match fees.
