bcci-s-tough-10-point-rules-to-discipline-team-india

In a decisive step towards bolstering discipline and unity within the Indian cricket team, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has rolled out a comprehensive set of guidelines.

Announced on Thursday, these measures follow the team’s underwhelming performance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia and the 3-0 home ODI whitewash against New Zealand.

The guidelines aim to promote professionalism, streamline operations, and foster a cohesive environment, enabling players to focus solely on performance while strengthening team dynamics.

Key directives

1. Mandatory daomestic participation:
   Players must participate in domestic tournaments to retain eligibility for national selection and central contracts. This ensures they remain connected to domestic cricket, inspire emerging talent, and maintain match fitness. Exceptions will only be granted under extraordinary circumstances with approval from the Selection Committee Chairman.

2. Unified travel policy:
   All players are expected to travel with the team. Separate travel arrangements with families are discouraged to maintain discipline and team spirit. Any exceptions require prior approval from the Head Coach and Selection Committee Chairman.

3. Baggage restrictions:
   To streamline logistics and reduce unnecessary expenses, the BCCI has introduced strict baggage limits:

   Away tours (Over 30 days):

   • Players: Up to 150 kg (5 pieces: 3 suitcases + 2 kit bags)
   • Support Staff: Up to 80 kg (3 pieces: 2 large + 1 small suitcase)

   Away tours (Under 30 days):

   • Players: Up to 120 kg (4 pieces: 2 suitcases + 2 kit bags)
   • Support Staff: Up to 60 kg (2 suitcases)

   Home series:

   • Players: Up to 120 kg (4 pieces: 2 suitcases + 2 kit bags)
   • Support Staff: Up to 60 kg (2 suitcases)

   Any excess baggage costs will be borne by individual players.

4. Restrictions on personal staff:
   Personal staff, including managers, chefs, or security personnel, are prohibited during tours unless explicitly approved by the BCCI. This ensures focus remains on team operations.

5. Commitment to Practice Sessions:
   Players must remain for the entire duration of practice sessions and travel to and from venues with the team, ensuring commitment and fostering a strong work ethic.

6. No personal endorsements:
   Engaging in personal endorsements or shoots during ongoing series or tours is prohibited to avoid distractions.

7. Family travel policy:
   Family visits during tours are subject to strict guidelines:

   • Players on overseas tours exceeding 45 days may have their spouses and children (under 18) visit for up to two weeks per series.
   • Shared accommodation during the visit will be provided by the BCCI, while all other expenses must be borne by the player.
   • Visits must align with dates agreed upon by the Coach, Captain, and GM Operations.

8. Official engagements:
   Players are required to participate in all BCCI-organised shoots and promotional activities, which are crucial for stakeholder commitments and promoting the sport.

9. Staying with the team:
   Players must stay with the team until the official conclusion of a series or tour, even if matches end earlier than scheduled. This policy strengthens team unity.

10. Equipment coordination:
    Players are responsible for coordinating with team management on equipment and items sent to the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. Costs for separate arrangements must be borne by the players.

According to BCCI, non-compliance with the guidelines may result in disciplinary action, including suspension from BCCI tournaments such as the IPL or deductions from retainers and match fees.

"By enforcing these rules, the BCCI seeks to maintain professionalism and ensure the players’ focus remains on cricket," the board maintained in a statement.