The Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) has imposed restrictions on players’ personal travel ahead of the first T20I against England, following strict directives from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
These rules were introduced after India’s recent loss to Australia, limiting family stays on foreign tours and restricting personal shoots during series, among other measures. As reported by PTI, the BCCI has issued a 10-point directive to the State Associations hosting matches in the upcoming white-ball series against England.
Ahead of the first T20I at Eden Gardens in Kolkata, CAB President Snehasish Ganguly stated that no special travel arrangements have been made for any players in accordance with the new BCCI policy.
“In keeping with the BCCI’s 10-point guidelines for players, the Cricket Association of Bengal has not arranged any separate means of conveyance [for individual players]. Only a team bus has been arranged for the Indian team.”
“There won’t be any personal vehicles for the cricketers. We have to follow the guidelines, which clearly state that all players are expected to travel with the team to and from matches and practice sessions,” Ganguly was quoted as saying by PTI.
The Indian Cricket Board has mandated that players must travel with the team for training and all matches to promote team unity and discipline under their new directives. This initiative is designed to encourage a more professional and cohesive team environment while focusing on the overall development of cricket at all levels.
“The BCCI’s new rules are not intended as a punishment; the Indian team is not a schooll”- Ajit Agarkar
In addition, the BCCI has made it compulsory for players to take part in domestic cricket when not on national duty. The impact of this policy is already evident, with Ravindra Jadeja, Rishabh Pant, and Rohit Sharma confirming their availability for the upcoming Ranji Trophy 2024-25.
However, star batsmen Virat Kohli and KL Rahul will not participate due to their respective injuries. Recently, Chief Ajit Agarkar addressed the new directives from the Board, stating that they are not a punishment for the players, and emphasized that all teams have rules that players must adhere to.
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