Champions Trophy: BCCI introduces non-negotiable SOPs ahead of tournament
What's the story
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially introduced a set of standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the Indian cricket team. During the recent third ODI in Ahmedabad, the players were presented with the guidelines, which cover aspects such as travel, nets, luggage allowances, and accompanying family members. As per Cricbuzz, the BCCI has emphasized that these largely disciplinary rules are non-negotiable and will be enforced immediately from the 2025 Champions Trophy onward. Here's more.
Enforcement responsibility
Touring manager tasked with ensuring compliance
The touring manager has been tasked with ensuring that all players follow these new SOPs. Meanwhile, the BCCI said the objective of these guidelines is "to establish guidelines that promote discipline, unity, and a positive team environment while ensuring professional standards and operational efficiency during tours and series." R Devraj, secretary of Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA), will be the team manager for the upcoming ICC event in Dubai from February 19 to March 9.
Staff restrictions
BCCI's new SOPs limit personal staff on tours
One of the biggest rules in the new SOPs is a cap on personal staff during tours. The guidelines read, "Personal staff (e.g., personal managers, chefs, assistants and security) are to be restricted on tours or series unless explicitly approved by the BCCI." This rule is aimed at keeping the focus on team operations and reducing logistical challenges. Earlier, players had over half a dozen staff in their personal entourages.
Family and travel
New rules on family visits and travel arrangements
The new SOPs also deal with family visits during overseas tours. Players away from India for more than 45 days can be accompanied by their partners and kids (under 18) for one visit per series (format-wise) of up to two weeks. However, with the Champions Trophy being around four weeks long, family members/spouses won't be seen. Additionally, players now have to travel by team bus after net sessions instead of their own vehicles.
Travel rules
BCCI's guidelines discourage separate travel with families
The BCCI's new guidelines also discourage players from making separate travel arrangements with their families. The advisory reads, "All players are expected to travel with the team to and from matches and practice sessions. Separate travel arrangements with families are discouraged to maintain discipline and team cohesion." Any exceptions need to be pre-approved by the head coach and Chairman of the Selection Committee, ensuring commitment within the team.
Endorsement restrictions
BCCI's new SOPs prohibit personal endorsements during tours
The new SOPs from the BCCI also restrict players from taking part in personal endorsements during an ongoing series/tour. The rule reads, "Players are not permitted to engage in personal shoots or endorsements during an ongoing series or tour." This is to avoid distractions and ensure that the players' focus remains solely on cricket and team responsibilities.
Guidelines
BCCI introduces new guidelines for Indian cricketers
The BCCI had issued a new set of guidelines, governing travel, spouses, luggage, and personal staff for Indian cricketers back in January. The board had warned that failure to comply with these rules could result in disciplinary action. "All players are expected to adhere strictly to the above guidelines," states a document circulated among media personnel. The BCCI document further clarified that any exceptions/deviations from these guidelines must be pre-approved by the Chairman of the Selection Committee and Head Coach.