New SOP guidelines non-negotiable, BCCI tells Champions Trophy-bound players

New SOP guidelines non-negotiable, BCCI tells Champions Trophy-bound players

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially handed over new SOPs – on travel, nets, luggage allowances, and accompanying family members – to all players.

The guidelines, largely disciplinary in nature, are non-negotiable and will kick in with immediate effect from the 2025 Champions Trophy. The touring manager has been authorised to ensure compliance.

The BCCI said the objective of the SOPs was "to establish guidelines that promote discipline, unity, and a positive team environment while ensuring professional standards and operational efficiency during tours and series."

Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) secretary R Devraj will be the manager of the team during the February 19-March 9 ICC event in Dubai and has been told to strictly enforce the rules.

"There is no going back on this and the players have made aware that the BCCI is very serious about the SOPs," a team source said.

Key SOP Highlights:

• Restriction on individual staff: Personal staff (e.g., personal managers, chefs, assistants and security) are restricted on tours unless explicitly approved by the BCCI.
• Family visits: Players absent from India for more than 45 days during overseas tours can be joined by their partners and children (under 18) for one visit per series (format-wise) of up to a two-week period.
• Team travel: Players must travel by team bus after net sessions. Separate travel arrangements with families are discouraged. Exceptions must be pre-approved by the head coach and Chairman of the Selection Committee.
• Practice session attendance: Players are required to stay for the entire duration of scheduled practice sessions and travel together to and from the venue.
• Commercial shoots: Players are not permitted to engage in personal shoots or endorsements during an ongoing series or tour.