BCCI, Gautam Gambhir end ’star culture’ in Indian team; Board issues 10-point directive to promote ’discipline, unity’

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) issued a 10-point directive for all players on Thursday, aiming to end the ‘star culture’ in the Indian dressing room and promote unity and discipline. The decision comes in the aftermath of India's woeful run in the Test series against New Zealand and Australia, which also cost Rohit Sharma's men a place in the World Test Championship final.

The Indian team lost 0-3 to New Zealand at home before surrendering to Australia 1-3 in the five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT). It is believed that the restrictions came in consultation with head coach Gautam Gambhir, captain Rohit Sharma and chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar, who met the BCCI officials in Mumbai for a review meeting on January 11.

Among other measures, playing domestic cricket has been made mandatory. Additionally, restrictions have been placed on family time during ongoing tours. Players who fail to comply with the rules and restrictions will face financial or otherwise penalties.

BCCI's 10-point directive for the players

• As per BCCI guidelines, all players must play domestic matches to remain eligible for selection in the Indian national team and central contracts. To ensure transparency, any exceptions to this mandate will require a formal notification from the chairman of selectors, Ajit Agarkar.
• No player can travel separately with their families to and during tours. Each player must travel with the team during matches and training sessions. If any player wishes to travel with their families, pre-approved permission by the head coach and the chairman of selectors is needed.
• All players must adhere to the specified baggage limits shared with the team. Any excess baggage costs will need to be borne by the individual player.

Baggage policy:

Away long-duration tours (more than 30 days):

Players - 5 pieces (3 suitcases + 2 kit bags) OR up to 150 kgs. Support staff - 2 pieces (2 big + 1 small suitcases) OR up to 80 kgs.

Away short-duration tours (less than 30 days):

Players - 4 pieces (2 suitcases + 2 kit bags) OR up to 120 kgs. Support staff - 2 pieces (2 suitcases) OR up to 60 kgs.

Home series:

Players - 4 pieces (2 suitcases + 2 kit bags) OR up to 120 kgs. Support staff - 2 pieces (2 suitcases) OR up to 60 kgs.

• The BCCI has restricted the inclusion of personal staff, including managers, chefs, assistants, and security, during tours (home or away). This ensures that the focus remains on the game and the series and minimises logistical challenges.
• Players and team management should coordinate to ensure that the kit bags and other equipment are sent to the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. The player will bear the costs incurred due to separate arrangements.
• No player can leave the practice session early. Even if the player is injured or advised to rest by the medical staff, he should stay for the entire scheduled duration and travel together to ensure commitment and set an example for others.
• No player will be allowed to engage in personal shoots or endorsements during an ongoing tour (home or away). It will allow the player to focus on the game and the series.

• Wives and children (under 18) and parents can visit the players on a one-visit per series for 14 days if the dates of the overseas tour exceeds 45 days. The BCCI will cover the shared accommodation with the player for the visitors' period. All other expenses will be borne by the player. Visits must be scheduled at a single time during dates agreed upon by the coach, captain, and GM Operations.
• Players are required to be available during BCCI's shoots, promotional activities and functions to maintain the Indian board's commitments to stakeholders and promoting the game effectively.
• No player is allowed to leave early if the matches ends before the scheduled date or time. It will ensure team bonding, and avoid disruption to team dynamics.