The BCCI is returning to its rules about players’ family time during tours. For trips lasting 45 days or more, players can have their immediate families—partners and children—join them for just 14 days, and they can’t arrive until the two-week mark passes. On shorter tours, families can stay for a week.
These rules were part of player contracts but were relaxed during the Covid-19 pandemic. During that time, players could include their families in the team bubble to support their mental health.
Recently, Indian captain Rohit Sharma, head coach Gautam Gambhir, and chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar met with BCCI officials in Mumbai. They discussed the reintroduction of the family protocols.
Currently, the BCCI covers the accommodation costs for families but not their travel expenses as long as the duration aligns with the new rules.
Sports organizations often debate if and how long players’ families should travel with them. For instance, the Chennai Super Kings in the IPL have successfully allowed family members to join, but other teams have opted to ban partners from team accommodations. Brazil won the 2019 Copa America with a ban on family visits, while Australian swimmers criticized similar rules during the 2012 Olympics, feeling isolated and demotivated.
Historically, Indian cricket has not settled this issue. The last significant discussion about family presence took place in 2018 when former captain Virat Kohli suggested loosening the restrictions.
Gambhir remarked at the time that players have varying opinions. Some prefer their families close by throughout the tour, while others focus better with less family involvement. He emphasized that any decisions should prioritize the best interests of Indian cricket.
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