Following India’s 1-3 series loss to Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has introduced a 10-point disciplinary guideline to address key concerns within the team. One of the primary directives focuses on players returning to domestic cricket to regain form. Former Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan has expressed his support for the move but also emphasized the importance of workload management.
Dhawan’s Take on Domestic Cricket and Player Fitness
Dhawan agreed that domestic cricket plays a crucial role in helping players regain form, especially after injuries or poor performances. He cited Mohammed Shami as an example, highlighting how the pacer played a full domestic season to prove his fitness before returning to international cricket.
“Absolutely, you should go and play,” Dhawan told ANI. “If someone is coming back from an injury, they must prove their match fitness in domestic cricket. That match sharpness is crucial,” he added.
However, he also stressed the need to balance game time with adequate rest. According to him, while domestic cricket helps out-of-form players rediscover their rhythm, forcing cricketers to play immediately after an intense international tour could affect their freshness.
Changes Under Gautam Gambhir’s Leadership
The introduction of these 10-Point Guideline has sparked speculation about potential internal conflicts within the team, especially with Gautam Gambhir stepping in as head coach. One of the key guidelines emphasizes better teamwork, fewer support staff, and restrictions on families traveling with the squad.
While some believe these changes will instill greater discipline, others fear they might create friction among players. As the Indian team prepares for upcoming tournaments, the impact of these new policies remains to be seen.
India’s heavy defeat in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy cost them a place in the World Test Championship final.
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