The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has often been at the centre of discussions regarding its policies for players, including those related to family accommodations during international tours. Recently, former Indian captain Virat Kohli has openly criticised the BCCI’s family Policy that restricts the travelling time of the player families, sparking a debate within the cricketing fraternity. Kohli’s comments have led to speculation that the Board might reconsider its stance on this matter.
BCCI’s Family Policy and Its Origins
BCCI’s current policy on family stays during international tours states that players can have their spouses and children accompany them, but only for a limited period. According to the policy, family members are allowed to visit for two weeks during tours exceeding 45 days. On shorter tours, this is further restricted to a single week. While the board covers accommodation costs, other expenses must be borne by the players themselves. First emerged during the COVID-19 era, this policy was later reintroduced after a horrific Test series loss against Australia earlier this year.
Following India’s return back home, Head Coach Gautam Gambhir had raised concerns regarding rising disunity in the dressingroom. The stricter rules were set to ensure that players remain focused on their game without external distractions, particularly during crucial series.
Kohli’s Criticism and Player Support
Virat Kohli, known for his candid opinions, expressed dissatisfaction with this policy, arguing that family presence plays a vital role in a player’s mental well-being and overall performance. He pointed out that long tours away from home can be mentally taxing and that having loved ones around provides emotional stability. Speaking at a pre-IPL 2025 promotional event, the RCB superstar said
“If you ask any player, do you want your family to be around you all the time? You’ll be like, yes. I don’t want to go to my room and just sit alone and sulk. I want to be able to be normal. And then you can treat your game as something that is a responsibility. You finish that responsibility, and you come back to life,”
Following Kohli’s opinion on BCCI’s family policy former cricket star Kapil Dev also threw his opinion
“I think that’s a cricket board’s call. Mine is, yes, you need a family, but yes, you need a team also all the time. In our time, we used to say to ourselves, not by the cricket board, the first half let me play cricket. In the second half, the families should come there and enjoy it too. It should be blend,”
A single statement made by Virat Kohli has the BCCI planning a few changes in the policy. A source close to the Cricket Board has said that owing to prior approval, players might be able to extend the stay of their families on longer tours.
“Players can apply for permission if they want their families to stay longer on tours. The BCCI will make a decision as it sees fit,” He stated.
Pros and Cons of Allowing Families on Tours
The debate over allowing families on cricket tours has both supporters and detractors. On the positive side, having family members around can improve players’ morale, reduce stress, and create a more relaxed environment. This can translate into better on-field performances, as seen in other sports where family stays are more flexible.
However, critics argue that excessive family presence may become a distraction, potentially affecting team bonding and focus. Some also believe that it could lead to logistical challenges, such as increased costs and additional accommodations, which may not always be feasible, especially during high-pressure tournaments.
While BCCI’s family policy was designed to help players bond more and to promote higher focus, it kind of overlooked the mental health impact, especially on longer tours. In the recently concluded Champion’s Trophy, India’s tart cricketer Virat and captain Rohit Sharma were seen celebrating the milestone victory with their families. Their presence made India’s win all the more special.
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