The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has rolled out a strict 10-point rule ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy, aiming to establish discipline, unity, and a positive team environment. This decision comes in response to reports of an unsettling team atmosphere during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. As a result, sweeping changes have been made, many of which were finalized after consulting head coach Gautam Gambhir. However, the implementation of these new policies has also impacted Gambhir himself.
BCCI’s Crackdown on Unauthorized Personnel
One of the most significant BCCI 10-point rule changes restricts personal assistants and managers of support staff from traveling with the team or staying in the same hotel. This move directly affects Gautam Gambhir, who was the only coaching staff member during the Australian tour with a personal assistant accompanying him.
Reports indicate that Gambhir’s personal assistant was a constant presence during India’s previous tours, even staying at the team’s hotel and appearing at various venues. The BCCI, determined to uphold confidentiality and professionalism, has now prohibited such access.
A PTI report confirmed the changes:
“The personal secretary of a coaching staff member, who was frequently spotted staying at the team hotel, now resides in a separate facility, even though he continues to attend matches.”
Concerns Over Team Leaks and Security
The BCCI’s firm stance comes in response to leaks from the Indian dressing room, which have caused significant concern in recent months. Even during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, sensitive team discussions found their way into the public domain, raising questions about internal security.
A frustrated BCCI official shared details of the issues surrounding Gambhir’s assistant:
“Why was his PA inside a vehicle reserved for national selectors? Discussions that should remain private cannot happen with an unknown third party present. Also, why was he seated in the BCCI’s hospitality box during the Adelaide Test?”
Additionally, officials strictly scrutinized unauthorized access in team areas. Reports surfaced that Gambhir’s PA entered restricted zones, including the team’s exclusive breakfast section at a five-star facility.
“How did he gain access to an area exclusively reserved for players? Such breaches are unacceptable,” a BCCI insider stated.
Restrictions on Family Members During Champions Trophy
The BCCI 10-point rule has also introduced new limitations on family members, wives, and partners traveling with the players. Under the latest guidelines, players cannot have family accompany them during the ICC Champions Trophy unless they personally cover all expenses.
This marks a significant change from previous policies, where players’ families often traveled with the team during major tournaments. The new restrictions are intended to keep distractions to a minimum and maintain a high-performance environment for the squad.
A New Era of Discipline for Indian Cricket
The BCCI has introduced a 10-point rule to signal a new era of professionalism and discipline within the Indian team setup. By restricting unauthorized personnel, minimizing team leaks, and strengthening unity, these regulations aim to bring more structure and accountability ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy.
Although some of these changes might seem strict, they highlight the BCCI’s commitment to creating a secure, focused, and distraction-free atmosphere for the national squad. India’s performance in the highly anticipated Champions Trophy in Dubai will reveal the impact of these new policies.
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