Keeping with the BCCI’s 10-point diktat to "promote discipline, unity, and a positive team environment" in the Indian men’s cricket team, head coach Gautam Gambhir’s personal assistant was shifted out of the hotel where the players were staying. According to reports, he has also been asked not to travel in the team bus or visit areas earmarked for the players or support staff.
His constant proximity to Gambhir during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia and his access to designated areas and presence at team gatherings did not go down well with the BCCI officials.
He had also, reportedly, travelled in the team bus and the car allotted to national selectors. Following this, the BCCI decided enough is enough. During the recently-concluded home series against England, Gambhir's personal assistant seen at the venues, but kept away from the players and the official gatherings.
Restrictions have also been imposed on other personal managers, agents, chefs, who were accompanying the team. The BCCI is trying to get some chefs on board to meet the special dietary requirements of certain players, PTI reported.
BCCI's new travel policy comes into effect
As per BCCI's new travel policy, families of Indian players will not be accompanying them to Dubai on February 15 for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. India will begin their campaign against Bangladesh on February 20, followed by the much-awaited clash against arch-rivals Pakistan on February 23. They will then face New Zealand on March 2.
The tournament will be played over three weeks, and as per the BCCI’s new policy, families can be with players for a maximum of two weeks during a tour which spans 45 days or more.
"Any deviation from this policy must be pre-approved by the coach, captain and GM Operations. Additional expenses outside the visitors' period will not be covered by the BCCI," PTI quoted a Board official as saying.