BCCI to enforce stricter touring rules for Indian team: Report
What's the story
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is gearing up to introduce stricter touring regulations for the national men's team.
The move comes after India's disappointing performance in the recent Test series, which saw them miss out on the World Test Championship (WTC) final.
The new rules will restrict the time players can spend with their families during tours, India Today reported.
Family restrictions
New guidelines limit family time during tournaments
Under the new guidelines, players' partners won't be allowed to travel with them for an entire tournament.
For tournaments of 45 days or more, families will be allowed to stay with the players for 14 days.
This could be further cut down to seven days for tours less than 45 days.
The changes are part of BCCI's plan to improve team focus and performance on international tours.
Travel regulations
BCCI introduces new travel and luggage rules
The BCCI's revised guidelines also mention that players will have to pay for any charges if their luggage exceeds 150kg.
Further, all the team members are now required to travel together in the team bus.
This rule was pointed out by former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra, who found it funny that this standard practice has been made into a specific rule.
Team dynamics
BCCI's changes follow reports of team discord
The BCCI's decision to tighten touring rules comes after India lost the Border-Gavaskar Trophy to Australia in a five-Test series marred by reports of internal strife in the Indian camp.
BCCI officials believe the presence of a large entourage accompanying the team throughout their Australian tour may have affected their performance.
This has sparked a debate about the future of Indian cricket and its veterans like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.
Cricket culture
Gavaskar calls for end to 'star culture' in Indian cricket
Former captain Sunil Gavaskar has called for an end to the 'star culture' in Indian cricket.
He stressed total dedication to Indian cricket is non-negotiable and slammed players who aren't fully committed.
"We don't need players who are partly here and partly elsewhere," Gavaskar told India Today last week.
"It's time to stop pampering anyone."
His comments highlight need for a cultural shift within the team.
Leadership change
BCCI elects new chief ahead of England tour
Ahead of India's next Test series in England in June-July, the BCCI has elected a new chief.
Devajit Saikia, a former player and advocate, is the only nominee for this top position.
He succeeds Jay Shah who has moved on to chair the International Cricket Council (ICC), the global governing body for cricket.
The leadership change comes at a crucial time as Team India prepares for its upcoming international commitments.