BGT 2024-25: BCCI restricts family time on tours after Gautam Gambhir's concerns
Xtra Time Web Desk: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided to limit family time for players during international tours following disappointing Test series losses against New Zealand and Australia under the leadership of Rohit Sharma and head coach Gautam Gambhir. Sources close to the matter have revealed that the suggestion to restrict family visits came directly from Gambhir himself, who is determined to address discipline issues within the team.
As per the new guidelines, players will be allowed to have their families with them for only 14 days on tours lasting 45 days or more. For shorter tours, the family stay will be limited to just a week.
Read More: Ban PR, not WAGs: Harsha Bhogle's bold message to BCCI
A source, speaking anonymously, shared that Gambhir raised concerns about indiscipline in the dressing room, particularly after India’s loss in the Border-Gavaskar series. The decision to revert to pre-COVID family stay rules is seen as a move to tackle these issues. “Gautam Gambhir and the players were on the same page regarding this topic,” the source said.
In addition to the family stay restrictions, Gambhir emphasized the need for stricter management of junior players. It was revealed that during the recent Australian tour, multiple senior and junior cricketers were seen dining out frequently, with only one team dinner organized throughout the entire tour.
Read More: BGT 2024-25: Did a star batter leak team news in Australia? Gambhir’s allegations spark controversy
Performance-based match fee distribution proposal
In another development, a senior Indian cricketer present at a recent meeting with BCCI president Roger Binny proposed a performance-based distribution of match fees. The suggestion was that players should only receive their fees after their performance in the game is reviewed, citing concerns that some players were not prioritizing domestic and national commitments.
This proposal is among several ongoing discussions between the Indian team management and the BCCI, with a possible meeting between Gambhir and BCCI officials expected around the first T20I against England in Kolkata.
