India’s new head coach, Gautam Gambhir, has publicly backed the BCCI’s revised policy on family travel for cricketers, a decision that has drawn mixed reactions from players, including a prominent voice from Virat Kohli.
New Rules for Family Travel
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) introduced new travel guidelines earlier this year, following the Border-Gavaskar Trophy defeat in Australia. These rules aim to manage the presence of players’ families during lengthy overseas tours.
Under the revised policy, if a tournament or tour lasts 45 days or more, families are permitted to join players for a maximum of two weeks. For shorter tours, the family stay is limited to seven days.
Virat Kohli’s Perspective
Before the IPL 2025 season, senior batter Virat Kohli shared his thoughts on the BCCI’s restrictions. He emphasized the emotional support and grounding that family provides during intense periods of play.
Kohli explained that it’s challenging for others to understand the value of returning to family after demanding matches. He expressed disappointment that people “who have no control over what’s going on” are part of the conversation to keep families away.
He further added that most players would prefer their families to be around to help them feel “normal” and switch off from the pressures of the game, treating cricket as a responsibility rather than an all-consuming burden.
Gambhir’s Firm Stand: “Not a Holiday”
Gautam Gambhir, speaking ahead of the Lord’s Test, strongly supported the BCCI’s decision. He highlighted that while families are important, players are on tour for a specific, significant purpose.
“You are here for a purpose. It’s not a holiday,” Gambhir stated, stressing the immense opportunity players have to make the country proud. He clarified he isn’t against families accompanying players, but the primary focus must remain on national duty.
For Gambhir, the commitment to the team’s goal and the country’s pride takes precedence over all other considerations. He believes that if a player’s focus is dedicated to this cause, everything else will fall into place.
Always Switched On: Gambhir’s Mindset
During the interaction, Gambhir was also asked how he unwinds between games. He admitted that he struggles to “switch off,” constantly thinking about the team’s performance and strategy.
He recalled winning a Test match and immediately thinking about the combination for the next game. This relentless focus underlines his philosophy that commitment to the team’s success is paramount.
- The BCCI has introduced new rules limiting family travel for cricketers on overseas tours.
- Virat Kohli expressed disappointment, highlighting the grounding value of family support during demanding periods.
- Gautam Gambhir strongly backed the rules, emphasizing that tours are for a “purpose” and “not a holiday,” with national pride as the top priority.
The debate highlights the balance between player well-being and professional commitment in the demanding world of international cricket.
