BCCI Introduces New Guidelines After India’s Border-Gavaskar Trophy Defeat

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced a series of new guidelines aimed at addressing performance and management concerns. The move follows India’s 1-3 defeat in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia, which has raised questions about the team’s focus and cohesion.

BCCI Introduces New Guidelines

BCCI Introduces New Guidelines

Performance-Based Pay Structure to Drive Accountability

The BCCI plans to implement a performance-based variable pay system to hold players accountable for their contributions on the field. Under this system, players who fail to meet expected standards could face financial deductions. This approach aligns with the current incentive model, which rewards players based on the number of matches they play in a season.

For example, players participating in over 50% of Tests earn Rs 30 lakh per game, while those who play more than 75% receive Rs 45 lakh. The new changes aim to ensure players consistently deliver top-notch performances.

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Strict Travel and Family Policies

The BCCI has also introduced new regulations regarding travel and family presence during tours to minimize distractions.

Limitations on Family Stays

Families can now accompany players for a maximum of 14 days during tours lasting 45 days or more. For shorter tours, the allowance reduces to seven days. The decision comes after observations that extended family stays during the recent Australia series might have affected players’ focus.

Unified Team Travel Protocols

All players must travel together on the team bus. Separate travel arrangements for senior players, a practice observed in the past, will no longer be allowed. This rule aims to foster team unity and discipline.

Revised Norms for Support Staff

The BCCI has addressed concerns about head coach Gautam Gambhir’s travel arrangements during the series, particularly the presence of his personal manager, Gaurav Arora. New rules will prohibit personal managers from staying in team hotels, using team vehicles, or occupying VIP boxes. This measure underscores the board’s commitment to upholding professional standards.

Background and Broader Implications

The new guidelines come after back-to-back Test series losses against New Zealand and Australia. The review meetings held in Mumbai with key stakeholders, including head coach Gautam Gambhir, captain Rohit Sharma, and chief selector Ajit Agarkar, highlighted issues of inconsistency and distractions within the team.

The BCCI’s proactive approach reflects its determination to rebuild India’s competitive edge in international cricket. These changes are expected to instill a sense of discipline and accountability within the team while addressing long-standing management concerns.