In an effort to foster a more cohesive and professional environment within the Indian cricket squad, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has implemented a stringent disciplinary code consisting of ten points. Following an analysis of the Indian cricket team’s overall performance following their defeat in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, this decision was reached.
Improvements in team discipline, player holistic development, and operational efficiency during tours and international series are the primary goals of the initiatives.
In drafting the disciplinary guidelines, what were the primary goals?
Keeping the squad focused and professional while maintaining a clear-cut framework of duty is the goal of the new 10-point guideline by the BCCI. Traveling, attending practice sessions, and engaging in personal hobbies are all part of this.
Regarding professional standards of play and operational efficiency in tours and series, disciplinary issues, team unity, and a pleasant team atmosphere are important.
1. Playing a Role in Home match
The only way for players to keep their central contracts and keep being considered for national team selection is to participate in domestic matches. All levels of talent scouting are carried out, players are kept fit for matches, and they are connected to India’s cricketing world. A written sanction from the Chairman of the Selection Committee is required before any relaxation may be given, and only in extreme cases.
2. Going On Trips With The Group
Every practice and game must be attended by the player and the team. In order to maintain team discipline and unity, it is not recommended that members travel alone or with others. The Head Coach and the Chairman of the Selection Committee must give their prior approval for any exclusions.
3. Limit on Excess Baggage
Restrictions on the individual luggage allotment have been imposed by BCCI in an effort to lighten logistics and eliminate unnecessary expenditures. Within these strict parameters, the participants would have to make do, but any additional costs would be their own. You are permitted to bring 150 kilograms of bags on tours longer than 30 days, but only 120 kg on tours less than 30 days.
4. Prohibition of Individuals in Team Roles
Only with the BCCI’s specific permission may personal staff, including managers, cooks, assistants, and security professionals, go on trips. Everything is being done with the intention of making logistics easier and keeping the team’s focus on performance and operations.
5. Organizing the Delivery of Bags to the Center of Excellence
Before shipping any belongings to the Bengaluru Centre of Excellence, players should consult with team management. The athlete is responsible for covering any extra expenses that may arise as a result of his own independent arrangements.
6. Regular Participation in Practice
Complete attendance at all practice sessions is required of all participants. As a team, the players will get closer as they endure the shared experience of getting to and from practice. Punishment may be imposed for failure to comply.
7. Endorsements and Portraits of the Artist
While a show or tour is in progress, the cast and crew should not participate in any kind of promotional activity, such as photo sessions or endorsements. With this restriction in place, players will be able to concentrate more intently on their cricket duties and team obligations.
8. Policy on Family Travel
The team’s obligations and the players’ health will be carefully considered when deciding whether or not to permit family travel. When a player is on tour outside of India for more than 45 days, his partner and any children under the age of 18 can accompany him for one visit in a series. The BCCI will pay for the athlete and his family’s shared housing, but the player is responsible for all other expenses. Before deviating from this guideline, the Coach, Captain, and GM Operations must provide their prior consent.
9. Attendance at Official BCCI Events
The Players are thus obligated to take part in all official engagements, including but not limited to promotional events, photo sessions, and any other events that BCCI may arrange. The marketing of the game and the fulfillment of contractual commitments with different stakeholders are guaranteed by these initiatives.
10. Tours Completed
No matter how early the matches are, players should remain with the squad until the tour or series concludes. The goal is to keep the team spirit up, keep everyone on the same page, and avoid disrupting their rhythm.
Risky Consequences If Attempted Failure
It has been made clear that the BCCI has put these regulations in place with great rigor. The consequences for not following them have been explained, and they include the following: a person’s participation in all BCCI-run tournaments, like the IPL, could be suspended, and their retainer fee and match money could be withheld from their contract.
In its statement, the BCCI emphasized the necessity of these steps to promote accountability, professionalism, and the success of Indian cricket at all levels.
