The BCCI’s decision to restrict family members from joining players on short tours has caused a stir. This rule came into effect after India’s disappointing tour of Australia. As a result, many cricketers have expressed concern. Even captain Rohit Sharma, while announcing the Champions Trophy squad, hinted at the issue. He stated, “I will have to sit down with the secretary to discuss a few things. About the family and other stuff.”
New Rule Limits Family Presence
Under the new policy, families cannot accompany players on tours shorter than 15 days. Consequently, during the Champions Trophy, some cricketers’ families, including Virat Kohli’s wife, Anushka Sharma, were present but only for select matches. Although most players have remained silent on the matter, Kohli openly criticized the restriction. According to him, family support plays a crucial role, especially during difficult times.
Furthermore, Kohli pointed out that while teammates offer support, nothing compares to the comfort of having loved ones around. He also expressed disappointment that many people fail to recognize the importance of family presence.
Kapil Dev Suggests a Balanced Approach
Meanwhile, legendary cricketer Kapil Dev shared his perspective on the issue. Speaking at the ‘Kapil Dev Grant Thornton Invitational’ event, he stressed the need for balance between personal well-being and team responsibilities. “Well, I don’t know, that’s individual. I think it’s the cricket board’s call,” he said.
Additionally, he acknowledged the significance of family but emphasized the need for team unity. Reflecting on his playing days, he explained, “In our time, we used to say to ourselves – not by the cricket board – that the first half of the tour should be cricket, and in the second half, the family should come and enjoy it too. It should be a blend.”
Players Divided Over the Decision
As expected, the rule has sparked mixed reactions among Indian cricketers. For instance, Kohli, along with Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Shami, had their families with them during the Champions Trophy in Dubai. However, they chose not to stay at the team hotel and covered their accommodation costs personally.
Kohli firmly defended the presence of families. He explained, “It is very difficult to explain to people how grounding it is to just come back to your family every time you have something intense, which happens on the outside.”
Moreover, he expressed frustration over the perception that families should be kept away. “I do not think people have an understanding of what value it brings to a large extent. And I feel quite disappointed about that because it is like people who have no control over what is going on are kind of brought into conversations and put out at the forefront that, ‘oh, maybe they need to be kept away,’” he added.
In the end, the debate continues as players struggle to balance their professional commitments with personal well-being.
