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In the wake of a disappointing performance by the Indian National Cricket Team in the 2025-26 Border-Gavaskar Trophy and a whitewash against New Zealand at home, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has issued new guidelines. This includes a restriction on players’ wives accompanying them on tours for the entire time.
New BCCI Rules After Disaster on Australia Tour
A crushing 1-3 loss to Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy has not only ended India’s chances of qualifying for the WTC 2025 final but has also prompted tough measures from the BCCI.
This step was taken during the BCCI’s review meeting, attended by chief selector Ajit Agarkar, head coach Gautam Gambhir, and Test and ODI skipper Rohit Sharma.
Even though the results were disappointing, the board opted not to make drastic changes to the lineup, since the Champions Trophy is just six weeks away. The team remains focused on maintaining stability and cohesion during this critical time.
BCCI’s New Guidelines for Indian National Cricket Team
- Wives and family members will not be permitted to accompany players for the entire tour.
- Families can stay for up to two weeks during a 45-day tour.
- Players must travel by team bus; No separate travel is permitted.
- Poor performance in a series will lead to a pay cut.
- The manager of Gautam Gambhir will not be allowed to sit in the VIP box or travel with the team bus, and must stay in a separate hotel.
- A player who exceeds 150 kilograms will be responsible for any additional luggage costs
A Performance-Based Variable Pay Structure For The Players – BCCI Reports
It is reported that a performance-based variable pay structure for players was discussed during the BCCI’s performance review meeting after India’s 3-1 loss to Australia in the 5-Test Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25.
It is reported in the Indian Express that the decision is meant to improve accountability among players, with potential salary reductions attached to underperformance. Based on corporate annual appraisal methods, the proposed system follows the same design.
Using this framework, a player’s pay would be directly affected if they underperformed.
BCCI Believes many Indian Cricket players do not give much Importance to Test Cricket.
During the review meeting on Saturday, concerns were raised about players showing less commitment to Test cricket, with some prioritizing white-ball formats and showing a lack of desire to play the longest format of the game.
The team management believes this issue needs to be addressed by the board, making sure future generations understand the importance of Test cricket and the honor of wearing the India cap.
According to a source, some current Indian players seem indifferent after losing a Test against England.
While the team management recognizes the importance of Test cricket, many players seem not to prioritize it as much.
Conclusion
As a result of the Indian cricket team’s underwhelming performance during the Australia tour, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has issued strict measures. Family visits will be restricted, with wives and girlfriends (WAGs) allowed to accompany players on tours lasting more than six weeks for a maximum of two weeks.
The board feels that the performance of players is getting impacted due to the presence of family during the entire tour.
