Ravindra Jadeja Under Scrutiny for Potential BCCI Protocol Breach, Unlikely to Face Penalty

Ravindra Jadeja, the dynamic all-rounder, is under scrutiny for a potential violation of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regulations during the second Test against England. Despite the alleged infraction, reports suggest that he is unlikely to face any repercussions.

Ravindra Jadeja in action at Edgbaston. (Reuters Photo)

The incident revolves around Jadeja's independent travel to Edgbaston Stadium. New guidelines mandate that all team members must utilize the designated team bus for transportation to and from the stadium and practice facilities. This SOP was established to enforce discipline within the team.

According to ESPNcricinfo, Jadeja's separate arrival at the stadium constitutes a breach of these regulations. However, sources indicate that disciplinary action is improbable due to his early arrival to engage in additional batting practice.

Jadeja addressed the situation in a post-match press conference, stating, "Somewhere I felt that I should go and bat extra because the ball was still new. I felt if I could see the new ball off, it would become easier for the rest of the innings. Luckily, I could bat till lunch, and then Washington [Sundar] also batted well with Shubman. The more you bat in England, the better it is because you never feel you are set here. At any time, a ball can swing, take your edge, or bowl you".

In the first innings of the second Test, Jadeja contributed a critical 89 runs, assisting India in amassing a formidable total of 587. Alongside Shubman Gill, Jadeja solidified India's position in the match.

Overview of the Updated BCCI Guidelines

Following the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the BCCI introduced a revised 10-point rulebook for the Indian team. A significant amendment restricts players from bringing personal staff, including chefs, hairdressers, stylists, and security personnel, on tours.

Key Excerpts from the Policy Document for Team India (Senior Men)

Objective:

To promote discipline, unity, and a positive team environment while ensuring professional standards and operational efficiency during tours and series.

1. Participation in Domestic Matches

Mandatory for national team eligibility and central contracts, fostering talent development and maintaining match fitness.

2. Travelling Separately with Families

Discouraged to maintain discipline and team cohesion; exceptions require approval from the Head Coach and the Chairman of the Selection Committee.

3. Excess Baggage Limit

Players must adhere to specified baggage limits.

Baggage Policy:

Away long-duration tours (more than 30 days):

• Players: 5 pieces (3 suitcases + 2 kit bags) OR up to 150 kg.
• Support staff: 3 pieces (2 big + 1 small suitcase) OR up to 80 kg.

Away short-duration tours (less than 30 days):

• Players: 4 pieces (2 suitcases + 2 kit bags) OR up to 120 kg.
• Support staff: 2 pieces (2 suitcases) OR up to 60 kg.

Home series:

• Players: 4 pieces (2 suitcases + 2 kit bags) OR up to 120 kg.
• Support staff: 2 pieces (2 suitcases) OR up to 60 kg.

4. Restriction on Personal Staff

Personal staff are restricted on tours unless explicitly approved by the BCCI.

5. Sending Bags to the Centre of Excellence

Players must coordinate with team management for dispatch of equipment to the Centre of Excellence, Bengaluru.

6. Attendance at Practice Sessions

All players are required to attend scheduled practice sessions and travel together.

7. Restrictions on Personal Shoots During Series/Tours

Players are not permitted to engage in personal shoots or endorsements during an ongoing series or tour.

8. Family Travel Policy

Designed to balance players’ personal well-being with team commitments:

• Eligibility: Players absent from India for over 45 days during overseas tours may be joined by their partners and children (under 18) for one visit per series (format-wise) lasting up to two weeks.

• Provisions: The BCCI will cover shared accommodation.

• Coordination: Family visits must be scheduled as a single visit during dates agreed upon by the Coach, Captain, and GM Operations.

• Exceptions: Any deviation requires pre-approval.

9. Participation in Official BCCI Engagements

Players are required to be available for BCCI’s official shoots, promotional activities, and functions.

10. Completion of Tours

Players must stay with the team until the scheduled end of the match series or tour.