BCCI Considers Kohli’s Captaincy Return: Report

Team India’s performance struggles under head coach Gautam Gambhir have reportedly disappointed the BCCI. The board is now considering reinstating the fitness rules from Virat Kohli’s captaincy era. Previously, the mandatory yo-yo fitness test was scrapped to address players’ workload and travel demands, but reports suggest it may soon make a comeback.

According to The Times of India, the BCCI is planning to reintroduce fitness criteria as a key factor for team selection, shifting the focus back to maintaining high fitness standards rather than just injury prevention. This decision comes amidst concerns over the team’s performance and the grueling schedule players face. The yo-yo fitness test, which was previously removed by the former management to reduce the risk of injuries, is reportedly set to make a comeback.

BCCI Plans Return to Kohli-Era Fitness Rules

The board had initially adopted a lenient approach, focusing on injury prevention due to the players’ frequent travel and workload. However, this relaxed attitude seems to have led to a drop in fitness commitment among some players. A source revealed, “The board had gone lenient on the players since they are mostly on the road. The focus had shifted to just injury prevention. This has been taken lightly by some players. It is being mooted that a certain fitness level criteria needs to be reintroduced so that complacency doesn’t creep in.”

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This renewed emphasis on fitness aligns with the BCCI’s broader strategy to enhance discipline and professionalism within the team. The return of mandatory fitness benchmarks is seen as a necessary step to ensure players remain at their peak physical condition, especially during a demanding international calendar.

Apart from fitness changes, the BCCI is also considering revising other team protocols. One such proposed change involves curbing the duration family members and players’ spouses can spend with the team during tours. These measures are aimed at creating a more focused and performance-driven environment for the players.

Officials believe that having families accompany players, especially on overseas tours, can distract them and impact their performance. To tackle this, the BCCI is reportedly considering restricting the duration families can stay with players during assignments.

Moreover, the board has introduced a new rule requiring all players to travel with the team at all times. This step addresses issues arising from some players opting for separate travel arrangements in recent years, which the BCCI views as detrimental to team cohesion and discipline.

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