BCCI permits cricketers' families to attend one Champions Trophy match
What's the story
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has allowed families and partners of Indian cricketers to watch one game in the Champions Trophy 2025.
However, the players will have to take prior approval from the BCCI before bringing their loved ones to the stadium.
The move marks a major departure from the past, when policies were stricter on family time on tours.
Policy shift
BCCI's decision follows disappointing performance in Australia
The policy change comes after India's dismal performance against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25.
Speaking to India Today, a BCCI source, who wished to remain anonymous, said that while the focus continues to be on team bonding and minimizing distractions, cricketers can now bring their family members (parents or wives) to one match during the Champions Trophy.
This is subject to prior approval from the board.
Stricter regulations
BCCI tightens rules after series of losses
Notably, the BCCI had also tightened rules after back-to-back Test series defeats against New Zealand and Australia.
Reportedly, the board was unhappy with the team's performance and the atmosphere in the dressing room during the tours.
Hence, it was proposed that players should spend more time on training and team bonding rather than with their families.
New guidelines
BCCI's new policy for family time during international events
Under the BCCI's new guidelines, players' wives and families can accompany them for up to 14 days during international series or events, if the tour exceeds 45 days.
For shorter overseas tours, a seven-day limit has been imposed.
These rules are part of the board's efforts to strike a balance between players' personal needs and their professional commitments on tour.