The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has permitted players to have their families attend one match during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
However, cricketers will be required to seek prior approval from the board before the designated fixture.
The decision follows stringent measures imposed by the BCCI after India’s disappointing performances in recent overseas Test series, including the 1-3 defeat in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. The move is aimed at maintaining focus and team cohesion, and an official privy to the matter told India Today on the condition of anonymity.
"While emphasising team bonding and ensuring players stay engaged without distractions, the BCCI has decided to allow cricketers to bring their family members to one match. However, prior permission from the board is mandatory," the source said.
India is set to play all its matches at the Dubai International Stadium, facing Bangladesh, Pakistan, and New Zealand in the group stage. If the team progresses, they will play the semi-final and final at the same venue.
Stringent travel guidelines
Following India's underwhelming performances in recent Test series, the BCCI has introduced strict protocols regarding players’ families accompanying them on tours. While no official directive was issued, it was evident that the board sought to limit personal time during international assignments to ensure undivided attention towards cricket.
Reports suggested discord within the Indian dressing room during the Australia tour, with controversies surrounding Ravichandran Ashwin’s retirement, alleged leadership disputes, and captain Rohit Sharma’s decision to drop himself for the final Test.
To address such concerns, the BCCI has outlined specific regulations regarding family visits and travel arrangements:
- For tournaments lasting 45 days or longer, families may stay with players for a maximum of 14 days.
- For shorter tours, the duration will be limited to 7 days.
- Players' wives and partners will not be allowed to stay for the entire tournament.
- All players must travel together on the team bus.
- Personal luggage exceeding 150kg will not be covered by the BCCI, and players will bear the extra cost.
- Gautam Gambhir’s personal manager will not be allowed in the VIP box or on the team bus and will be required to stay in a separate hotel.
The board’s decision underscores its commitment to keeping players focused on their game as India seeks to reclaim the Champions Trophy title in 2025.
