ISLAMABAD: In a surprising turn of events following the Indian cricket team’s disappointing Test series against New Zealand and Australia, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reportedly decided to prohibit players’ families from joining them on tours, aiming to enhance performance, as per Indian media reports on Tuesday.
This decision follows India’s staggering 0-3 defeat at home to the Kiwis and their 1-3 loss in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series in Australia.
The BCCI’s move came after a review meeting held on Saturday in Mumbai, attended by board officials, head coach Gautam Gambhir, chief selector Ajit Agarkar, and captain Rohit Sharma, according to the Hindustan Times.
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Reinstating a rule previously lifted during the COVID-19 pandemic, the board has declared that cricketers’ wives and families will be barred from travelling with them on tours. Officials believe that family presence, particularly during international engagements, may hinder players’ focus and performance.
Under the new guidelines, family members will only be permitted to join players for two weeks on tours lasting over 45 days, while shorter trips will allow just a week of family time.
The cricket body has also mandated that players must travel collectively on the team bus, emphasizing unity. The report states, “No matter how high-profile a player may be, they will not be allowed to travel separately.”