Virat Kohli outsmarts BCCI's ban on personal chefs, finds creative way to stick to his diet

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has brought to notice some binding new regulations for the Indian men’s cricket team ahead of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, cancelling added conveniences for the players. Introducing the 10-point guideline sheet, these constraints assistants, security staff and personal chefs on overseas tours implying even senior star figures like Virat Kohli. 

According to The Times of India (TOI) report, Virat Kohli has managed to maintain his strict diet despite the strict forbidden rules. As soon as he arrived in Dubai, he reached out and coordinated with a local team manager to arrange meals from a reputed and acclaimed restaurant. Shortly after the training session, Kohli received a food packet organized by the manager. 

"It contained a few boxes of Kohli’s post-session meal. While others packed their kit bags, Kohli was refuelling and even saved a box for the road," the report mentioned.  

Key BCCI Travel & Discipline Rules 

The BCCI has passed out a fresh set of rules and regulations for the India Men's Cricket Team exacting on development, coordination and integrity. Let's have a quick look at these guidelines:

• No personal staff: Players cannot lead chefs, security personnel or managers unless given approval. 
• Team travel mandatory: Limiting personal travel for players as they must travel together for all matches and training.
• Baggage restrictions: Players can carry up to 150 kg; surplus gear outlay is supposed to be covered individually. 
• Family travel policy: Partners and children (under 18) can accompany during overseas tours exceeding 45 days but only once, per series for two weeks. BCCI covers shared accommodation. 
• Mandatory team stay: Players must remain with the team until the series officially concludes. 

All set with Champions Trophy Preparations 

India commenced training on February 16 in Dubai, majoring looking into focusing on middle and death-over batting strategies. Kohli led acute and intense net sessions against Mohammed Shami and Arshdeep Singh. 

The tournament kicks off on February 19, with India playing Bangladesh on February 20 and a highly anticipated match against Pakistan on February 23, 2025.