The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has recently implemented a new policy restricting the presence of cricketers’ families on tours that last less than 15 days. This decision has sparked controversy, with Virat Kohli openly criticizing BCCI for not considering the mental and emotional well-being of players. The ‘no family’ rule first gained attention after India’s disappointing tour of Australia. Even India’s captain Rohit Sharma inadvertently hinted at internal discussions regarding the policy while announcing India’s squad for the Champions Trophy. With growing concerns among players, Kohli criticizes BCCI, emphasizing the importance of having family support during high-pressure tournaments.
Virat Kohli Criticizes BCCI’s Stance on Family Presence During Tours
Despite most Indian cricketers maintaining silence on the issue, Virat Kohli took a direct swipe at BCCI, highlighting the emotional impact of keeping families away from players during crucial tours.
Kohli, whose wife Anushka Sharma attended India’s matches against Pakistan, Australia, and New Zealand during the Champions Trophy, expressed disappointment over the restriction. He stressed that while teammates offer support, nothing compares to the emotional grounding provided by family members.
“It is very difficult to explain to people how grounding it is to come back to your family after something intense on the field. I do not think people understand the value it brings,” Kohli said in an interview with ESPNcricinfo.
Kohli further pointed out that players should not have to fight for their personal well-being, adding that external decisions should not dictate personal and professional balance. Kohli criticizes BCCI for failing to acknowledge this aspect.
Kapil Dev Reacts as Kohli Criticizes BCCI’s Family Policy
Legendary former India captain Kapil Dev has weighed in on the growing debate, urging the board to adopt a balanced approach that accommodates both team responsibilities and personal well-being.
“I don’t know. That’s an individual choice, but I think it’s the cricket board’s call,” Kapil Dev said at the Kapil Dev Grant Thornton Invitational event.
The 1983 World Cup-winning captain reflected on his playing days, explaining how cricketers of his era managed professional and personal commitments without BCCI intervention.
“In our time, we used to say to ourselves—not because of the cricket board—that the first half of the tour should be focused on cricket, and in the second half, family should be there to enjoy it too. It should be a blend,” Kapil Dev added.
Divided Opinions on the ‘No Family’ Rule
The BCCI’s decision has divided the Indian cricket fraternity, particularly after Virat Kohli criticized the board for failing to recognize the psychological benefits of having family around. Kohli criticizes BCCI for not considering how emotionally draining long tours can be without family support.
During the Champions Trophy, Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja, and Mohammed Shami had their families in Dubai but chose not to stay at the team hotel, covering their own accommodation costs.
Kohli firmly stated that keeping families away does not necessarily enhance performance, and BCCI’s policy overlooks the emotional well-being of players. Kohli criticizes BCCI for imposing a decision that lacks input from players.
“It feels disappointing that people who have no control over what is going on are brought into conversations and made the focal point of discussions, suggesting that they need to be kept away,” Kohli remarked.
Will BCCI Reconsider Its Decision?
With Kohli criticizing BCCI’s stance, the debate over the no family policy is far from over. While some argue that restricting family presence ensures team discipline and focus, others believe that personal well-being should not be sacrificed for rigid regulations.
As the controversy unfolds, it remains to be seen whether BCCI will address the concerns raised by Kohli and other senior players or continue enforcing the strict travel protocols. Kohli criticizes BCCI, bringing attention to a policy that could significantly impact the mental health of cricketers.
🚨 What’s your take? Should players be allowed to have their families on short tours, or should they adhere to BCCI’s new policy? Let us know in the comments!
