The BCCI has instructed state units that no individual transportation will be provided for players, mandating that all team members travel exclusively by the team bus. Additionally, personal managers or assistants of players and support staff are prohibited from staying at the team hotel.
Kolkata: The enforcement of the new 10-point policy guidelines for the Indian cricket team has commenced, with the BCCI notifying the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) that separate vehicles for players are not permitted, as all must utilize the team bus for travel.
The Indian team is currently in Kolkata for the T20I series opener against England at Eden Gardens on January 22. Following the disappointing series against Australia, the BCCI has introduced a comprehensive 10-point Standard Operating Procedure (SOP).
According to the SOP, "all players must attend the full duration of scheduled practice sessions and travel collectively to and from the venue. This regulation promotes dedication and cultivates a robust work ethic within the team."
Indian captain Rohit Sharma has voiced concerns regarding certain aspects of the guidelines; however, it is reported that the BCCI has already implemented at least one of the ten stipulations. The 10-point policy document detailing the new regulations has been distributed to all state cricket boards hosting the India-England matches, including the CAB.
CAB president Snehasish Ganguly confirmed the arrangements and reiterated the association's commitment to following the guidelines.
"In accordance with the BCCI’s 10-point directives for players, the Cricket Association of Bengal has not organized any separate transportation," Snehasish stated to PTI.
"Only a team bus has been arranged for the Indian team. There will be no personal vehicles for the players. We are required to adhere to the guidelines, which clearly indicate that all players are expected to travel with the team to and from matches and practice sessions," added the former Bengal cricketer and brother of Sourav Ganguly.
Previously, some senior players had used personal vehicles for transportation to and from stadiums, which were arranged by the BCCI's operations team.