The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has taken action against head coach Gautam Gambhir by barring his personal assistant, Gaurav Arora, from traveling with the Indian cricket team. This decision follows complaints from BCCI officials about Arora’s unrestricted access to areas that have been off-limits even for the players.
According to Cricblogger, Arora was seen in restricted zones meant only for Team India players, selectors, and officials. Reports indicate that he had access to selectors’ cars, the BCCI’s hospitality box at Adelaide Oval, and the breakfast zone in team hotels—privileges typically reserved for players and team officials. His presence in these areas led to protests from some officials, prompting the BCCI to intervene.
A BCCI source confirmed the board’s response: “In response, the BCCI has barred Gambhir’s PA from staying in the same hotel as the Indian team, accessing VIP boxes in stadiums, and using the team bus. He can’t travel with the team.”
The move comes as the BCCI aims to enforce uniform regulations across the team setup. While Indian players have adhered to disciplinary guidelines, including mandatory domestic cricket participation, the board’s decision reinforces that rules apply equally to the coaching staff.
This crackdown follows the BCCI’s recent directive after India’s 1-3 series loss in Australia, where the board mandated domestic cricket participation for Team India players and restricted family involvement on overseas tours to maintain discipline and focus.
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