New Delhi: After India’s Test series defeat in Australia, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) introduced new regulations, including restrictions on players’ families accompanying them on tours. Star batsman Virat Kohli has openly questioned this decision and explained in simple terms why family support is essential for a player’s mental well-being.
Former RCB captain Virat Kohli has strongly advocated for allowing players’ families on tours. He emphasized that instead of staying alone and feeling isolated in a hotel room, having personal support helps players handle stressful days on the field more effectively.
Following India’s 1-3 Test series loss to Australia, BCCI issued a directive limiting players’ time with their families on long tours (45+ days) to just 14 days. For shorter tours, players’ wives, children, or girlfriends can stay for a maximum of one week.
Kohli Raises Concerns Over BCCI’s New Rule
During the recently concluded Champions Trophy, Virat Kohli, along with Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Shami, had their families in Dubai. However, they did not stay at the team hotel, and the players bore all accommodation expenses, not the BCCI.
Speaking at RCB’s ‘Innovation Lab’ conference on Saturday, Kohli stressed the importance of family for players. He said, “It is very difficult to explain to people how crucial family is. Every time you face a stressful situation, having your family around makes a huge difference. I don’t think many people truly understand its significance.”
Kohli further stated that having family nearby helps players recover quickly from on-field setbacks. “I don’t want to go back to my room and sit alone feeling low. I want to be normal. Only then can you treat your game as a responsibility,” he added.
Why Family Support Matters in Cricket
Kohli explained that having a balanced personal life creates a positive atmosphere for players. “After fulfilling your professional commitments, returning to a normal family environment brings happiness. Whenever possible, I never miss an opportunity to spend time with my family.”
Expressing his frustration, the 36-year-old cricketer said, “It was disappointing because people who had no involvement in this issue started commenting, saying, ‘Oh, maybe players should stay away from their families.’ But if you ask any player whether they want their family around, they will always say ‘Yes.’”
With IPL 2025 approaching, BCCI’s new rules regarding players’ families have sparked heated discussions, with Kohli leading the call for change.