BCCI reaffirms policy limiting family presence on India's overseas tours
What's the story
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has confirmed that the newly-introduced Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the Indian cricket team will remain unchanged.
This includes the policy regarding family members accompanying players on overseas tours.
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia emphasized the importance of these policies to "both the nation and the organization."
This comes after senior Indian batter Virat Kohli spoke on the important of players' staying connected with their families on tours.
Policy details
SOPs introduced after Border-Gavaskar Trophy
The BCCI had introduced a set of 10 SOPs after the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which India lost Down Under.
One major change was restricting family presence during overseas tours.
As per this policy, spouses and kids (under 18 years) can accompany Indian players on tours of more than 45 days, for a maximum of two weeks.
However, the policy has faced some backlash from certain players during its recent implementation at the ICC Champions Trophy.
Player feedback
Players express their views on family policy
As mentioned, Virat Kohli expressed a desire for more family presence at a recent event in Bengaluru.
He had said, "If you ask any player, do you want your family to be around you all the time? You'll be like yes. I don't want to go to my room and just sit alone and sulk."
However, Saikia admitted there could be differing opinions on this policy, but stressed it was uniform for all team members.
Policy history
Long-standing policy with potential for amendments
Saikia clarified that the family policy isn't new and has existed for decades, even before the tenure of current BCCI President Roger Binny.
The latest iteration of the policy includes additional provisions pertaining to "players' presence at practice sessions, match schedules, tours, luggage, and team movements among other activities."
These changes are aimed at promoting team unity and cohesion.
Information
Restrictions for IPL 2025
Notably, the BCCI has also applied the same family restrictions to the IPL for the 2025 season. As per these guidelines, families are not permitted in the dressing room and have to travel separately instead of team busses.