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Former India captain Kapil Dev has weighed in on the ongoing debate regarding cricketers taking their wives and girlfriends (WAGs) on overseas tours. While he supports the idea, he insists that there should be a restriction on their presence, particularly in the initial phase of a tour, to allow players to build team chemistry.
Speaking on the Cricket Adda YouTube channel, the 1983 World Cup-winning captain suggested that WAGs should not be allowed for the first 20 days of a one-month-long tour to help players bond as a unit.
🗣 Kapil Dev’s Take:
“Taking your wives on tours is not wrong, but I feel that if the tour is one month, they should not be allowed for the first 20 days so that the players can play together as a team,” he stated.
He further added that for longer series, players should prioritize team bonding before family visits are permitted.
“Similarly, for a three-month campaign, at least for a month, players should be left alone with the team. Also, teams should travel together. This is not an individual sport,” he emphasized.
The Context Behind Kapil’s Remarks
The issue of WAGs on tours became a hot topic after India’s 1-3 Test series defeat in Australia followed by a 0-3 home series loss to New Zealand. Following these disappointing performances, the BCCI enforced stricter policies, including limiting WAGs’ presence during international assignments.
Kapil Dev’s comments underline the importance of team cohesion and focus in cricket. While acknowledging the positive impact of family support, he believes that players should first develop strong camaraderie with their teammates before reuniting with their loved ones during extended tours. His stance reflects the fine balance between personal life and professional duties in the demanding world of international cricket.
