Former Australia wicketkeeper-batter Ian Healy has shared his thoughts on the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) implementing a bold 10-point set of guidelines following India’s 1-3 series loss in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. These new regulations were introduced to tackle several off-field issues and curb the growing ‘superstar culture’ within the team.

The guidelines stipulate that players must travel together, stay in the same hotel, and be available for domestic cricket whenever possible. These measures have already started to show results, with most contracted players now expected to participate in domestic cricket in the coming weeks.

Rohit Sharma, the Indian team captain, and chief selector Ajit Agarkar recently addressed the media during a press conference to announce the squad for the 2025 Champions Trophy, also discussing the new set of rules.

Rohit Sharma reflected on the packed schedule of the Indian cricket team, saying, “Over the past six to seven years, if you look at our calendar, there hasn’t been a period where we’ve had 45 days at home while cricket continues elsewhere.”

Ajit Agarkar emphasized the importance of discipline, adding, “It’s not about punishment or a school-like atmosphere. There are simply rules that come with playing for the national team, and these players, being mature individuals and international superstars, know how to maintain their professionalism and handle themselves.”

Ian Healy criticized the lack of discipline within Indian cricket, stating, “It’s concerning that these issues went unchecked for so long. The response from Indian cricket authorities has been firm, acknowledging a serious lapse in maintaining the team’s discipline. It’s quite extraordinary that such matters went unnoticed.”

Healy also warned other cricketing nations, including Australia, saying, “Administrators and players should respect the honor of representing a cricket powerhouse. Australia, and others, should be aware of how things can derail without realizing the long-term effects. Stay vigilant and consider these lessons as you enter the competition.”

India’s first match after the implementation of these guidelines will be the opening T20I against England on Wednesday, January 22, at Eden Gardens.

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