Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir has finally spoken on the controversy around the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) new policy that limits the duration families can accompany cricketers on overseas tours. The rule, which allows families to stay with players for 14 days during a tour of 45 days or more, has sparked mixed reactions, most notably from senior batter Virat Kohli.
After India’s Test series loss to Australia, the BCCI introduced these stricter rules, claiming they were necessary to maintain focus and professionalism. Kohli, however, voiced disappointment at the rule, saying it ignored the emotional value and mental support families provide to players, especially during high-pressure tournaments.
Gambhir Says Cricket Comes Before Everything
In a conversation with Cheteshwar Pujara, Gambhir shared a different perspective. He clarified that while he’s not against players having their families with them, the main priority must be cricket and national duty.
“Families are important, but you’re here for a purpose, not a holiday,” said Gambhir. “You’ve got a role to play. Only a few people get to make the country proud wearing that jersey. If your focus is on that cause, everything else can wait.”
Gambhir added that discipline and purpose must drive players when on tour. For him, representing the country outweighs all other considerations, even personal comfort or emotional bonding time with family.
Kohli Had Earlier Called the Rule Disappointing
Virat Kohli had voiced his displeasure at a public summit hosted by RCB, expressing that people often underestimate the grounding influence families have during tours.
“It’s very difficult to explain how grounding it is to come back to your family after an intense day. I feel disappointed that people who provide that support are being sidelined by rules,” Kohli said.
With both Gambhir and Kohli sharing their views, the debate continues over how to strike the right balance between personal well-being and professional responsibility in international cricket.
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