BCCI enforces strict 10-point policy ahead of England T20I series

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has implemented a stringent 10-point policy for the Indian cricket team, beginning with the upcoming T20I series opener against England at Eden Gardens in Kolkata on January 22.

Among the new protocols is a directive requiring all players to travel together on the team bus, with no separate vehicles arranged for individual players. The Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) has confirmed its compliance with these measures.

This decision follows India’s disappointing series against Australia, prompting the BCCI to introduce a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) aimed at enhancing discipline and unity within the team. 

According to the SOP, "all players are required to stay for the entire duration of scheduled practice sessions and travel together to and from the venue. This rule ensures commitment and fosters a strong work ethic within the team."

While India’s skipper, Rohit Sharma, has reportedly raised concerns about certain clauses, the BCCI has already begun enforcing these rules, starting with the team’s travel arrangements.

The 10-point ‘policy document’ has been circulated to all state cricket boards hosting the India-England series, including the CAB. CAB President Snehasish Ganguly expressed the association's dedication to adhering to these guidelines.

“In keeping with the BCCI’s 10-point guidelines for players, the Cricket Association of Bengal has not arranged any separate means of conveyance,” Ganguly stated. 

“Only a team bus has been arranged for the Indian team. There won’t be any personal vehicles for the cricketers. We must follow the guidelines, which clearly state that all players are expected to travel with the team to and from matches and practice sessions.”

Previously, senior players often traveled to and from stadiums in personal vehicles arranged by the BCCI’s operations team in coordination with state units. 

Even during tours of Australia, some players traveled separately with their families. However, under the new regulations, such practices have been discontinued.

For the first time, the Indian contingent arrived at Eden Gardens on the team bus, marking a significant shift. 

Head coach Gautam Gambhir was the first to alight, followed by support staff and players, including captain Suryakumar Yadav and all-rounder Hardik Pandya.

Additionally, the BCCI has barred personal managers or assistants associated with players and support staff from staying at the team hotel. 

This decision follows criticism over a personal manager of a support staff member gaining access to the team hotel and the hospitality box reserved for national selectors during the Australian series.