Introduction of BCCI’s New Staff Restrictions
The start of the ICC Champions Trophy has brought major changes to Indian cricket. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has introduced a new 10-point directive. This directive limits player activities, including New Staff Restrictions on personal chefs, stylists, and assistants during overseas tours.
Kohli Finds a Workaround to Meet Dietary Needs
Virat Kohli quickly adapted to these new regulations. Instead of relying on his personal chef, he arranged for a food packet to be delivered to him after arriving at the training venue in Dubai. According to the Times of India, Kohli communicated his dietary needs to a local team manager. The manager then brought him a meal from a popular food outlet.
Kohli enjoyed his meal while the rest of the team packed up their gear. The report mentioned that Kohli even saved some food for later. This allowed him to maintain his routine without violating the BCCI’s new policy.
BCCI’s Strict 10-Point Directive
The new policy limits players’ ability to bring personal staff, such as chefs and security personnel, on overseas tours. Players can only bring such staff with prior approval from the board. This rule aims to streamline player management during international tours.
In addition to these staffing changes, coach Gautam Gambhir’s personal assistant was moved to a separate hotel. This reflects the board’s commitment to enforcing the new guidelines.
Impact on the Team and Players
The BCCI’s directive has altered the team’s structure. Senior players, including Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Ravindra Jadeja, were instructed to play in the Ranji Trophy. This move reflects the board’s push to strengthen domestic cricket.
During India’s first nets session in Dubai, Kohli was the first to take the crease, facing pace bowlers Mohammed Shami and Arshdeep Singh. Hardik Pandya and Shreyas Iyer also showcased their aggressive batting, with the support staff closely monitoring their shots.
Looking Ahead to the Champions Trophy
India will begin their Champions Trophy journey on February 20 against Bangladesh, with a highly anticipated match against Pakistan on February 23. These games, set in Dubai, will provide both challenges and opportunities for the team. Despite the BCCI’s regulations, players like Kohli continue to adjust, keeping their focus on high performance.
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