BCCI Introduces New Disciplinary Guidelines After Australia's Test Series Setback

The people who are in charge of cricket in India got together because our cricket team didn't do so well against Australia. We only won 1 game and lost 3. It was for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. These major leaders made up 10 rules to help the players do better. They want everybody on the team to be friendly, follow the rules, and play very good.

The meeting, which led to the formation of these guidelines, was attended by key stakeholders, including captain Rohit Sharma, head coach Gautam Gambhir, chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar, and BCCI president Roger Binny. The board emphasized that the aim of these measures is to foster professionalism, operational efficiency, and a cohesive team environment.

These are really strict guidelines and a welcome change. The superstar culture has to change and the focus should be performance and winning games. Point 7 is really good. #BCCI #IndianCricketTeam pic.twitter.com/gh7jPIrtbe

— C O N F U J I T (@SurajitTweet) January 17, 2025

Key Guidelines for Players

1. Mandatory Domestic Participation
   Players must participate in domestic matches to remain eligible for selection in the national team and for central contracts. This measure ensures players stay connected with the domestic cricket ecosystem, maintain match fitness, and contribute to talent development. Exceptions will only be granted in extraordinary circumstances with formal approval from the Chairman of the Selection Committee.

2. Team Travel and Logistics
   All players are required to travel with the team to and from matches and practice sessions. Separate travel arrangements, including those with family members, are discouraged to maintain team cohesion and discipline. Exceptions must be pre-approved by the Head Coach and the Chairman of the Selection Committee.

3. Baggage Regulations
   Strict limits on baggage have been introduced to streamline logistics and avoid unnecessary expenses. Players are permitted specific baggage allowances depending on the tour duration:
   Long Tours (>30 days): Three pieces, including two suitcases and one kit bag, or up to 150 kg.
   Short Tours: Two pieces, including one suitcase and one kit bag, or up to 120 kg.

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4. Restriction on Personal Staff
   Personal staff such as managers, chefs, assistants, and security personnel are restricted on tours unless explicitly approved by the BCCI. This measure ensures focus on team operations and minimizes logistical challenges.

5. Dispatch of Equipment to Centre of Excellence
   Players must coordinate with team management regarding the dispatch of equipment and personal items to the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. Any additional costs incurred due to separate arrangements will be the responsibility of the player.

6.Mandatory Attendance at Practice Sessions
   Players are required to attend all scheduled practice sessions in full and travel with the team to and from the venue. This policy aims to ensure discipline and effective preparation.

7. Restrictions on Personal Shoots and Endorsements
   Players are prohibited from participating in personal shoots or endorsements during an ongoing series or tour. This prevents distractions and ensures complete focus on cricket and team responsibilities.

8. Family Travel Policy
   The BCCI has established a balanced family travel policy to support players' personal well-being while prioritizing team commitments:
   1. For overseas tours exceeding 45 days, players’ families (partners and children under 18) may visit once per series for up to two weeks.
   2. Shared accommodation costs during the designated visitors' period will be covered by the BCCI, but all other expenses will be borne by the player.
   3.Family visits must be scheduled with approval from the Coach, Captain, and GM Operations.

9. Participation in Official BCCI Engagements
   Players are required to attend BCCI’s official promotional activities, shoots, and functions, which are critical for fulfilling commitments to stakeholders and promoting the game.

10. Completion of Tours
    Players must remain with the team until the scheduled end of the series or tour, even if matches conclude earlier than expected. This rule ensures team unity and avoids disruptions to team dynamics.

Objectives and Implications

The BCCI’s guidelines are designed to address issues observed during recent tours, including logistical inefficiencies, lack of discipline, and distractions. The measures aim to:
1. Strengthen the domestic cricket structure.
2. Enhance team bonding and professionalism.
3. Promote operational efficiency during tours and series.

BCCI made some new rules. They want all the players on the Indian team to be nicer to each other and do a good job together. This is a new direction the BCCI is trying to make things better and help people play great cricket. They think that by making players play more in India and making fully sure everyone is doing their job well, the team will do better.

Also, they want to make sure that the Indian cricket team remembers what truly matters about cricket. This is of major importance because they want the team to follow the rules and focus on playing their best.