The BCCI has issued 10 guidelines for Indian cricketers to ensure “discipline, unity, and a positive environment” within the team. These guidelines include strict restrictions on individual practice sessions or travel to match venues, and players are also advised not to bring their spouses or children for extended periods when on tour.
While some of these guidelines have been in place previously, they are now being strictly enforced with clear instructions. Players who fail to comply may face consequences, including being barred from playing in the IPL or domestic cricket, or having deductions made from their salary and benefits.
The BCCI’s firm stance regarding players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli comes after India’s recent disappointing performances. India’s Test team has lost their last two series by big margins — 3-0 at home to New Zealand and 3-1 in Australia.
Following these performances, the BCCI held a review meeting with board secretary Devajit Saikia, head coach Gautam Gambhir, Test and ODI captain Rohit Sharma, and chief selector Ajit Agarkar. During this meeting, the 10 guidelines were finalized to ensure discipline and a positive atmosphere within the team. These guidelines were sent to all players under BCCI contracts on Thursday.
Some of the key directives from BCCI’s new rules include:
- Participation in Domestic Cricket
Players must participate in domestic cricket matches to be considered for national selection and maintain their central contract. Exceptions will only be made under special circumstances with the approval of the chief selector. - Family Travel
Players must travel to and from team hotels, training, and match venues by team bus. They are not allowed to arrange separate travel for their family. In exceptional cases, prior approval from the chief selector and head coach is required. - No Excessive Baggage
During tours, players are not allowed to carry extra baggage. If they exceed the specified weight or bag limit, they will have to bear the costs themselves. - Personal Staff Restrictions
Personal staff such as managers, chefs, assistants, and security personnel can only accompany the player if they have explicit approval from the BCCI, ensuring smooth coordination with the team’s management. - Sending Equipment to the Center of Excellence
Sports gear and personal items must be coordinated through the team management and sent to the BCCI’s Center of Excellence in Bengaluru. If players wish to send items separately, they will bear the cost. - Attendance at Practice
All players must be present for the entire duration of practice sessions. Leaving early after their individual practice is not allowed. - Restrictions on Commercial Activities
Players are prohibited from engaging in any personal commercial or advertisement activities during a series or tour. - Family Travel Policy
Players on extended tours (more than 45 days) may bring their spouse and children for one trip, lasting up to two weeks. Accommodation costs will be borne by the BCCI, but other expenses must be covered by the player. - Participation in BCCI Events
Players must participate in official BCCI events such as promotional shoots and other activities. - End of Tour Protocol
If a match ends early, players must remain with the team until the tour or series is officially completed. Leaving the team early is not permitted.
The BCCI has made it clear that these rules must be followed strictly. Non-compliance may result in disciplinary actions, such as being banned from IPL matches or having match fees deducted. The BCCI emphasized that these measures are taken to prioritize Indian cricket and ensure accountability.
