IND vs ENG 2025: BCCI's latest team bus guideline in 10-clauses gets implemented

The apex governing body, BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India), recently introduced a strict 10-point guideline for India's senior men's team, which was implemented ahead of the first T20I against England, at the iconic Eden Gardens, in Kolkata, on January 22. These rules were implemented after a disappointing performance in the recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia.

Team India is now gearing up for five T20Is against England, followed by three ODIs, which is a crucial build-up to the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy. However, India's recent struggles in the longest format of the game have prompted the board to implement measures to improve team performance and cohesion.

The new guidelines have been communicated to all state cricket associations hosting the India-England series. One of the changes in the policy is the mandate that players must travel together in the team bus to and from matches and practice sessions. The Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB), with respect to the policy, confirmed that no separate transportation arrangements were made for individual players.

"In keeping with the BCCI's 10-point guidelines for players, the Cricket Association of Bengal has not arranged any separate means of conveyance [for individual players]. Only a team bus has been arranged for the Indian team. There won't be any personal vehicles for the cricketers. We have to follow the guidelines, which clearly state that all players are expected to travel with the team to and from matches and practice sessions," CAB President Snehasish Ganguly was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.

Rohit Sharma expressed concerns about the restrictions

The policy also requires players to stay for the entire duration of scheduled practice sessions, with exceptions allowed only with pre-approval from the head coach or chief selector. The BCCI stated that this guideline is designed to ensure a strong work ethic within the team.

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Other aspects of the guideline include mandatory participation in domestic cricket, to maintain player preparation and form. BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar clarified that these measures are not punishments but are intended to get discipline.

While the BCCI believes the new guidelines are necessary, they have sparked mixed reactions from players. Indian skipper Rohit Sharma recently expressed concerns about the restrictions, particularly regarding the limited time players will have with their families during tours. However, Agarkar emphasized the importance of sticking to rules when representing the national team.