The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has allowed players to bring their families to attend one match during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
However, cricketers will need to seek prior approval from the board before the designated match.
This decision follows strict 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, as an anonymous official shared with India Today.
“While emphasizing 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, the semi-final and final will also be held at the same venue.
Strict Travel Guidelines
Following India’s underwhelming performances in recent Test series, the BCCI has introduced strict protocols regarding players’ families traveling with them. While no official directive was issued, it was clear that the board aimed to limit personal time during international tours to ensure undivided focus on cricket.
Reports suggested discord within the Indian dressing room during the Australia tour, with controversies surrounding Ravichandran Ashwin’s retirement, 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 tours lasting 45 days or more, 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.
