The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is considering easing its rules on players’ families joining them during international tours. As per BCCI sources, cricketers who want their families to stay with them for a longer duration while traveling overseas may soon be able to request special approval from the board.
This possible policy change follows Indian cricket star Virat Kohli’s recent remarks at the Royal Challengers Bengaluru Innovation Lab Indian Sports Summit, where he spoke about the emotional challenges of being away from family during long and demanding tours.
BCCI May Relax Family Stay Policy for Players
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly considering changes to its policy on players’ families staying with them during international tours. According to sources cited by India Today, players and support staff may soon be allowed to have their families accompany them for extended periods, provided they get prior approval from the board.
This possible revision comes shortly after Virat Kohli voiced concerns over the existing policy, emphasizing the need for players to spend time with their loved ones, especially after intense matches on overseas tours.
“Players can request permission for longer family stays during tours, and the BCCI will decide accordingly,” a senior board official stated.
The BCCI implemented a 10-point disciplinary guideline for the senior men’s team after their disappointing tour of Australia in early 2025. One of the key restrictions was limiting the time players’ families could stay with them on overseas tours. These travel restrictions were reintroduced after being relaxed during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The decision followed a review meeting with head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Rohit Sharma, where Gambhir reportedly highlighted concerns about a lack of team cohesion in the dressing room. This led the BCCI to enforce stricter measures to maintain focus and unity within the squad.
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Current BCCI Family Stay Policy
Players on overseas tours for more than 45 days can have their partners and children (under 18) visit them once per series (format-wise) for up to two weeks. The BCCI will cover shared accommodation during the visit, but all other expenses must be paid by the player.
Visits must be scheduled for a single period, with dates approved by the Coach, Captain, and GM Operations. Any exceptions to this policy require prior approval from the Coach, Captain, and GM Operations. Expenses beyond the approved visit period will not be covered by the BCCI.
Virat Kohli’s Concern on Family Travel Restrictions
During a recent promotional event ahead of IPL 2025, Virat Kohli openly criticized the restrictions on players’ families accompanying them on tours. He emphasized the emotional impact of staying away from loved ones for extended periods.
“If you ask any player whether they want their family around, the answer will always be yes. No one wants to sit alone in their room and sulk. Having family around helps maintain a sense of normalcy, allowing players to focus on their game as a responsibility and then return to life,” Kohli stated.
Legendary cricketer Kapil Dev also supported Kohli’s view, recalling that during his era, players preferred having their families join them in the latter half of overseas tours. He stressed the importance of balancing team bonding with family time.
Notably, Indian players, including Kohli and Rohit Sharma, were joined by their families in the UAE during the Champions Trophy campaign. The team celebrated their victory in Dubai on March 9, highlighting the significance of family presence during crucial tournaments.
Also Read: India Won Champions Trophy 2025, Beating New Zealand By 4 Wickets
FAQs
Q.1. What changes is BCCI considering in its family stay policy for players?
Ans. The BCCI may allow players’ families to stay for longer durations on overseas tours if players receive prior approval from the board.
Q.2. Why did BCCI restrict family stays on international tours?
Ans. After the disappointing 2025 Australia tour, BCCI reintroduced restrictions to improve team cohesion and discipline.
Q.3. What is the current BCCI family stay policy for players?
Ans. Players on overseas tours for over 45 days can have their families visit once per series for up to two weeks, with prior approval.
Q.4. What was Virat Kohli’s concern about the family travel policy?
Ans. Kohli emphasized the emotional strain of being away from family and urged for a more flexible policy to maintain players’ well-being.
Q.5. Did any former cricketers support Virat Kohli’s stance?
Ans. Yes, Kapil Dev supported Kohli’s view, recalling how families accompanied players in the latter half of overseas tours during his playing days.
