BCCI to Impose Strict SOPs : The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has recently implemented strict Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for players, and the reason isn’t just about performance or discipline. Instead, the change comes after an unnamed star Indian cricketer reportedly carried a shocking 27 bags to Australia for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), forcing the board to rethink its policies.
BCCI to Impose Strict SOPs : How a Star Indian Player’s Luggage Controversy Led to New BCCI Rules
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The 27-Bag Controversy: What Happened?
According to reports, a prominent Indian batter, along with his family and personal staff, traveled with an excess of 250 kg worth of luggage, including 17 cricket bats. Since Team India moved across six Australian cities (Perth, Canberra, Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney) during the series, BCCI had to bear hefty airline fees, amounting to lakhs of rupees.
This revelation sparked outrage within the board, as such excessive baggage added unnecessary logistical and financial burdens on the management. Consequently, BCCI has now put a firm stop to such practices.
BCCI’s New Strict SOPs for Players
To prevent further exploitation of travel allowances, BCCI has introduced the following key regulations:
- Baggage Restrictions: Each player will now have a strict luggage limit of 150 kg, covering both personal and cricketing gear.
- Excess Baggage Charges: Any baggage exceeding this limit will be covered by the players themselves.
- Family Travel Rules: Family members can only accompany players for a maximum of two weeks on tours exceeding 45 days.
- Mandatory Domestic Cricket Participation: Players must now participate in domestic tournaments (like the Ranji Trophy) when not playing for the national team.
Who is the ‘Unnamed’ Star Player?
While the BCCI has not officially revealed the name of the player responsible for triggering these new rules, speculation suggests it is a senior batter.
- The fact that 17 bats were part of the luggage suggests the player is not a bowler.
- The cricketer is also referred to as a “star,” indicating a high-profile player.
Fans and experts have been left guessing, but no official confirmation has been made.
Impact of the New BCCI Guidelines
- Cost Management: The BCCI will no longer have to pay hefty airline fees for excess baggage.
- More Discipline: Players will need to self-regulate their travel arrangements and avoid unnecessary expenditures.
- Boost for Domestic Cricket: Enforcing domestic participation ensures that top players continue to contribute to India’s domestic structure, strengthening the game at all levels.
While BCCI’s new SOPs may seem strict, they address a genuine concern regarding player privileges and travel costs. The move ensures that players take responsibility for their expenses and maintain discipline while representing the country.
FAQs
What is the new baggage limit for Indian cricketers?
Players now have a strict baggage limit of 150 kg, including both personal and cricket gear.
Will BCCI pay for excess baggage anymore?
No, any luggage beyond the set limit will be covered by the players themselves.
