BCCI Cracks Down On Players With Strict Ten New Rules After Recent Losses

The BCCI has announced a set of ten strict rules for the Indian men’s cricket team following their poor performances in recent Test series against New Zealand and Australia. These guidelines aim to improve discipline, focus, and team spirit. The policy is effective immediately and warns of severe consequences for violations, including exclusion from domestic cricket and the IPL.  

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India faced back-to-back Test series losses, first a 3-0 defeat at home to New Zealand and then a 3-1 loss in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. In response, the BCCI held a review meeting with head coach Gautam Gambhir, captain Rohit Sharma, chief selector Ajit Agarkar, and BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia. Based on their recommendations, the BCCI created a document titled “Policy Document for Team India”.  

The Ten Rules  

1. Mandatory Team Travel:  
   Players must travel with the team to matches, tours, and training sessions. Separate travel is discouraged and requires prior approval from the head coach or chief selector.  

2. Full Attendance at Practice:  
   Players must stay for the entire duration of scheduled practice sessions. This rule is meant to foster discipline and a strong work ethic.  

3. No Early Departures:  
   Players cannot leave a tour early, even if matches finish ahead of schedule. This ensures team bonding and avoids disruptions to team dynamics.  

4. Limited Family Visits:  
   On tours lasting 45 days or more, families can visit for a maximum of 14 days. Visits require approval from the coach, captain, and BCCI officials. Players must cover any additional expenses beyond the approved period.  

5. Restrictions on Personal Staff:  
   Players are no longer allowed to bring personal staff, such as managers, chefs, or assistants, on tours. This minimizes logistical challenges and ensures focus on team operations.  

6. Ban on Commercial Activities:  
   Players are prohibited from participating in personal commercial shoots during tours or series to maintain focus on cricket.

7. Domestic Cricket Is Mandatory:  
   Players must play domestic cricket to remain eligible for national selection and central contracts. The BCCI will not allow exceptions unless under extraordinary circumstances approved by the selection committee.  

8. IPL Cannot Be Prioritized Over Domestic Cricket:  
   Players skipping domestic cricket to prepare for the IPL will face sanctions. The BCCI has emphasized that playing domestic cricket strengthens the ecosystem and helps players maintain match fitness.  

9. Sanctions for Non-Compliance:  
   Violating the guidelines will lead to strict disciplinary action. Sanctions could include exclusion from domestic cricket and the IPL, along with deductions from central contracts and match fees.  

10. Accountability and Unity:  
   All players must adhere to these rules to promote a disciplined and cohesive environment. “This policy ensures accountability and reinforces the importance of adhering to established policies,” the BCCI stated.

With these new measures, the BCCI is sending a strong message to the team: discipline and teamwork are non-negotiable.