BCCI Implements Team Bus Rule for India Ahead of First T20I Against England
The BCCI has new travel rules for the Indian cricket team. They enforce a strict “team bus rule” before the first T20I against England at Eden Gardens on January 22. The 10-point SOPs aim to improve team discipline. They will ensure consistent player movement in the series against Jos Buttler’s England.
Indian Team Arrives in Kolkata for Series Opener
Suryakumar Yadav and his team landed in Kolkata. They are preparing for the much-anticipated T20I series. The new guidelines require players to travel only by team bus. The BCCI issued this directive to all host state associations.
The CAB, led by president Snehasish Ganguly, confirmed it follows the new rules. “We didn’t arrange any separate vehicle for any cricketer as per the rule of the BCCI,” ” Snehasish told PTI. “Only the team bus was arranged, and the players are expected to use the team bus for the practice sessions as well,” he added.
Strict SOPs Enforced After Australia Tour Controversy
These measures come after incidents in India’s Test series in Australia. Reports say players’ staff and outsiders violated protocols. Gautam Gambhir’s manager was criticized for being at the hotel and hospitality box during the tour.
To avoid similar breaches, the BCCI has barred players’ personal staff from the team hotel and from touring with the squad.
CAB Aligns With New Guidelines
The CAB, hosting the opener, has assured full compliance with the BCCI‘s directives. There were no private vehicles, usually arranged for players at domestic matches. This absence reinforced the focus on unity and discipline.
India’s adoption of the new guidelines is a big step. It will ensure a smooth, professional approach during the England series. The first T20I at Eden Gardens on January 22 will be thrilling. Both teams want to set the tone for the series.