Since the conclusion of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, Indian cricket has undergone significant changes. Following an unfulfilling series, the BCCI implemented a 10-point directive restricting certain activities, including banning players from bringing personal chefs, stylists, and staff on overseas tours.
However, after landing in Dubai for the ICC Champions Trophy, Virat Kohli found a creative way to enjoy his preferred meals. As per a Times of India report, shortly after arriving at the training venue, Kohli received a food packet. While personal chefs were prohibited, he coordinated with a local team manager, who carefully understood his requirements and arranged food from a well-known eatery.
Kohli Bypasses BCCI Restrictions to Satisfy His Food Preferences
The report stated that the packet contained a few boxes of Kohli’s post-training meal. While his teammates packed their kit bags, Kohli took the time to refuel and even kept a box for later.
As per the BCCI’s 10-point directive, “Players can no longer bring personal staff like chefs, security guards, or assistants on tours unless explicitly approved by the BCCI.”
Both players and support staff had to adjust to these new rules. Even India’s head coach, Gautam Gambhir, faced restrictions. His Personal Assistant, who accompanied him at the team hotel and on the bus, was instructed to stay elsewhere.
Also Read:एनसीपी कोर ग्रुप में धनंजय मुंडे, बीड सरपंच हत्या मामले में आरोपों का सामना
Due to this policy, senior players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Ravindra Jadeja played in the Ranji Trophy. While Rohit and Kohli didn’t have the best outings, the BCCI’s focus on strengthening domestic cricket was clear through these new rules.
During Team India’s first net session in Dubai, Virat Kohli was reportedly the first to step in. He, along with Rohit Sharma, faced the pace attack of Mohammed Shami and Arshdeep Singh. Hardik Pandya and Shreyas Iyer went all out in the nets. This caused the support staff and others to stay alert for incoming balls.
India will kick off their Champions Trophy campaign against Bangladesh on February 20, followed by a highly anticipated clash against Pakistan on February 23. All of India’s matches in the tournament are set to be played in Dubai.
Also Read:Who was Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj? Here’s how history books describe Chhaava