New Delhi: The issue of family time during international cricket tours has ignited a passionate debate, with former BCCI national selector Saba Karim emphasizing the need for balance between cricket commitments and personal life. This comes after India’s cricket stalwart, Virat Kohli, voiced his concerns about the emotional toll of prolonged separations from loved ones during grueling overseas tours. As the cricketing world navigates this sensitive topic, the pursuit of equilibrium has become a pressing matter.
Finding the right balance is crucial, according to Saba Karim, who suggests that both the BCCI and its players must work together to ensure that rules are fair and beneficial for everyone. The current BCCI policy allows players’ immediate families to stay with them for up to 14 days after the first two weeks of a tour lasting more than 45 days. For shorter tours, families can accompany players for up to a week, but this has not been enough to quell dissatisfaction among players. The strict regulations were introduced following India’s disappointing performances in Test cricket, but the reaction from players like Kohli highlights the emotional strain of these policies.
Virat Kohli’s candid views at the Royal Challengers Bengaluru Innovation Lab Indian Sports Summit underscored the importance of family support during intense cricket commitments. He noted that having family nearby helps maintain a sense of normalcy and responsibility towards the game. Despite these sentiments, the BCCI has maintained that its current policy is necessary for maintaining team cohesion and discipline.
The ongoing debate about family time during tours also coincides with the excitement around the 18th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL), where new talents are expected to shine. Players like Ashutosh Sharma, Vignesh Puthur, and Vipraj Nigam have already made headlines with their performances, signaling a promising season ahead. As fans await these emerging stars, the broader conversation about cricket and personal life continues, with many watching to see how the BCCI will address the concerns of its players.
