The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reaffirmed its stance on the family policy for Indian cricketers during overseas tours, despite criticism from senior player Virat Kohli.
Secretary Devajit Saikia addressed the matter in response to Kohli’s remarks, asserting that the current standard operating procedures (SOPs) will remain unchanged.
Kohli, speaking at a recent Royal Challengers Bengaluru event, expressed dissatisfaction with the restrictions, emphasizing the importance of family presence for players’ emotional well-being. He stated, “I don’t want to go to my room and just sit alone and sulk… having family around helps players strike a balance between responsibility and normalcy.”
The BCCI implemented stricter family guidelines following the Border-Gavaskar series, allowing players’ partners and children (under 18) a single two-week visit per series, with shared accommodation costs covered by the board. Saikia acknowledged the mixed reactions but defended the policy, citing its long history and focus on team cohesion.
“This policy is not new; it has evolved over decades and aims to ensure unity within the team,” Saikia said. He added that exceptions can be made in special circumstances, subject to prior approval by the management.
India’s next overseas engagement will be a five-Test series in England post-IPL 2025, where the policy will continue to be enforced.
