Photo Credit: Instagram Photo of @imaagarkar
India’s chief selector, Ajit Agarkar, addressed the recently introduced 10-point directive for the Indian cricket team, implemented after their disappointing performance against Australia. The BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) introduced strict measures, including limiting family stays during foreign tours, restricting personal shoots during series, and mandating participation in domestic matches, among other rules. Agarkar explained that these changes aim to enhance team bonding, as the management identified areas for improvement over the past few months.
“I think every team has some rules in place. We have spoken about various things you see over the last few months where we can improve as a team and get a bit closer as a team. We have seen in the last few months the need for some changes, more bonding in the team,” Agarkar stated, discussing the rationale behind the new guidelines.
Agarkar emphasized that the rules are not punitive but intended to foster professionalism and adherence to team principles. “It’s not a school, it’s not a punishment. It’s just you have some rules, and when you are playing for the national team, you just follow the rules. These are mature individuals. They are superstars in their own right in international sport. They know how to handle themselves,” he said.
He added that many of these rules already existed but have now been formalized for clarity and consistency. “At the end of the day, you’re eventually representing your country, and there are certain things that you inherently follow as every team does. A lot of them have been in place, maybe we’ve spoken about it now and it has been put out, but a lot of them have been in place in any case. You keep on refining it as you go along. Eventually, what suits the team, you want to try and do that,” Agarkar concluded.
The BCCI‘s review followed India’s 1-3 loss in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, leading to the introduction of the new policy. As per the document obtained by India Today, players are prohibited from traveling with personal staff such as cooks, hairdressers, stylists, or security guards during tours.
The guidelines also forbid the use of independent transport for practice sessions or matches, aiming to foster discipline and strengthen team unity. These measures are part of a broader effort to promote a professional and cohesive culture in Indian cricket while supporting its overall development.
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Name of Author: Cricexec Staff
