As Team India prepares for the 2025 Champions Trophy in the UAE, a new policy by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has ensured that players’ families won’t be accompanying them for the tournament. The BCCI’s recent guidelines, introduced after India’s 3-1 series defeat in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, now restrict families from traveling on tours shorter than 45 days. Even for longer tours, family visits are limited to a two-week period for every 45 days.
The Champions Trophy kicks off on February 19, with India playing their first match against Bangladesh the next day. Under the hybrid model agreed upon by the cricket boards, India’s matches will be held exclusively in the UAE, while the rest of the tournament will take place in Pakistan.
A senior BCCI official confirmed the policy enforcement, stating, “As of now, players won’t be accompanied by their wives or partners for this tour. One senior player inquired about it, but was informed that the policy remains in place. If exceptions are made, the individual will have to bear all expenses, as BCCI will not cover any costs.”
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A leaked BCCI policy document clarified, “Players on overseas tours exceeding 45 days can have their partners and children (under 18) join them for up to two weeks per format. Any deviations require pre-approval from the coach, captain, and GM Operations. Additional expenses outside the designated period will not be covered by the board.”
However, players’ families will be permitted during India’s extended five-Test tour of England, scheduled for June to August after IPL 2025. The exact window for their stay will be decided closer to the series.
The BCCI has already enforced several new regulations, including mandatory domestic cricket participation and team-wide travel for matches. “No player is allowed to use private vehicles for practice sessions, and all state units have been informed,” the official added.
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Additionally, the board has restricted players from bringing personal chefs and secretaries on tours. To accommodate dietary needs, the BCCI is reportedly planning to hire professional chefs for the team.
