Following the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) introduced a new set of regulations. A recent incident has now surfaced, shedding light on one of the reasons behind these changes.
As per a report by ‘Dainik Jagran’ (via ‘NDTV Sports’), an unnamed Indian cricketer carried 27 bags during the Australia tour. These bags not only contained his belongings but also those of his family members and personal staff who accompanied him.
The report further stated that the total weight exceeded 250 kg, leading the BCCI to cover additional costs. Among the luggage were 17 bats and various other items belonging to his family and staff. Although BCCI’s policy requires separate handling of family and staff baggage, the player had the board take care of everything.
Additionally, the report revealed that the player’s family members and personal staff accompanied him throughout the tour. As a result, the BCCI had to bear the expenses of transporting their belongings and luggage from India to Australia, back to India, and even between cities within Australia.
While the exact amount spent remains undisclosed, the report estimates that the cost likely ran into several lakhs.
BCCI Imposes Strict Guidelines After Policy Violations on Australia Tour
In response to such violations and players taking undue advantage, the BCCI has introduced stricter guidelines following the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. According to the report, one of the key new rules limits the board’s coverage of luggage costs to a maximum of 150 kg to prevent similar issues in the future.
Additionally, players will now be required to travel exclusively on the team bus for matches, with no personal travel arrangements permitted. Under the new guidelines, family members will no longer be allowed to accompany players on tour.
These regulations will be fully enforced during the 2025 Champions Trophy, which marks India’s first overseas assignment since the new policies were introduced.
Get the latest cricket news here, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter and Instagram for more such updates.
