Related Articles
In a major development, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is considering revising its family stay policy for players during foreign tours, according to a report by ANI journalist Vipul Kashyap. The move is aimed at providing better personal support to players during long overseas assignments.
Currently, the BCCI has strict restrictions on family stays, allowing players’ partners and children to join them only after the first two weeks of a tour exceeding 45 days. Even then, their stay is capped at 14 days.
However, with India set to embark on a five-match Test series in England from June 20 to August 4, the board is re-evaluating the policy and may permit longer family stays under prior approval.
Table of content
Why Is BCCI Considering This Change?
The possible policy change comes after India’s disappointing performance in the 2024 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), where Rohit Sharma’s team suffered a 3-1 defeat despite winning the first Test in Perth.
Following the series loss, the BCCI implemented stricter rules restricting:
✅ Family stays (limited duration and late arrival)
✅ Personal staff presence
✅ Commercial engagements during series (requiring approval from the selection committee chairman and head coach)
However, reports suggest that players found it difficult to cope with these restrictions, especially during long and grueling tours. The new policy aims to strike a balance between personal well-being and professional commitments.
How Will the New Policy Work?
If approved, the revised policy could be implemented for the England tour, where players may get more flexibility in applying for family stays. However, it remains unclear whether the board will completely lift the restrictions or introduce a case-by-case approval system.
With key senior players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli often traveling on extended tours, the amendment could be a welcome relief for Indian cricketers.
India’s Focus Now Shifts to IPL 2025
While discussions over the new family stay policy continue, Indian players will return to action in the IPL 2025, starting March 22. The season opener will see Royal Challengers Bengaluru take on Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens.
Meanwhile, all eyes will be on BCCI’s final decision regarding the family stay policy, which could have a significant impact on team morale and player well-being during foreign assignments.
