BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed that the policy limiting family time for players will remain unchanged despite Virat Kohli’s criticism, noting its importance for team unity and national interest.
The BCCI has decided to retain its policy restricting family time for Indian cricketers on overseas tours, despite recent criticism from Virat Kohli. Secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed the decision on Wednesday, stating that the policy is crucial for both the board and the nation. He noted that it was not a sudden move but an updated version of older regulations.
“At this stage, the current policy will remain intact, as it is of paramount importance to both the nation and our institution, the BCCI,” Saikia told Cricbuzz in an interview.
Earlier reports suggest the policy was reinforced after India’s Border-Gavaskar Trophy loss to Australia in 2024-25. Under the guidelines, players’ families can stay for two weeks on a 45-day tour, with exceptions requiring special approval. Additional rules include mandatory team travel and luggage restrictions.
Saikia, who recently took over from Jay Shah, highlighted that the policy applies to players, coaches, and staff, ensuring team unity. He also noted that similar regulations have existed for decades, dating back to the playing days of BCCI President Roger Binny.
“The BCCI recognises that there may be some resentment or differing opinions, as in a democratic setup, people are entitled to express their views. The policy is applied uniformly to all team members – players, coaches, managers, support staff, and everyone involved – and has been implemented with the best interests of everyone in mind,” he said.
“This policy has not been formulated overnight; it has been in place for decades, dating back to the playing days of our president, Roger Binny – and possibly even earlier. The new policy is an amendment of the previous one, with additional provisions regarding players’ presence at practice sessions, match schedules, tours, luggage, team movements, and other ancillary activities, all aimed at the objective of team cohesion and unity,” Devajit Saikia added.
Earlier, Virat Kohli had voiced his disappointment over the BCCI’s family restrictions during an event hosted by Royal Challengers Bengaluru. The BCCI allows players’ families to stay for up to two weeks on overseas tours lasting more than 45 days. However, exceptions can be made in special cases through a formal process.
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Notably, Devajit Saikia also indicated that while the policy remains unchanged, adjustments could be considered in the future.
“The BCCI has increased the duration of family members’ stay with players during overseas tours, with provisions for relaxing the norms under special circumstances, but this will be done through a proper process,” the secretary concluded.
