Ravindra Jadeja Under Scrutiny for Potential BCCI Protocol Breach During England Test

Ravindra Jadeja, the Indian all-rounder, is under scrutiny for potentially violating the BCCI's Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) during the second Test against England. While a breach may have occurred, sanctions are reportedly unlikely.

Ravindra Jadeja breaks BCCI rules at Edgbaston. (Reuters Photo)

Separate Travel to the Stadium

Reports suggest that Jadeja traveled to Edgbaston separately from the rest of the Indian team. This action appears to contravene the BCCI's regulations, which were implemented following India's tour of Australia. These rules mandate that all team members must travel together on the team bus to and from the stadium, as well as practice sessions, to maintain discipline.

Possible Rationale and Lack of Sanction

However, sources indicate that Jadeja is unlikely to face any disciplinary action. It's believed he arrived at the stadium earlier than his teammates to engage in extra batting practice.

Jadeja addressed his commitment to preparation after the second day's play, 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."

Notably, Jadeja contributed a crucial 89 runs in the first innings, aiding India in achieving a substantial 587-run total.

Overview of the New BCCI Rules

The BCCI introduced a comprehensive 10-point rulebook following the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. A significant change restricts players from bringing personal staff, like cooks or stylists, on tours.

Key Objectives of the Policy:

• Promote discipline and unity.
• Ensure professional standards.
• Foster a positive team environment.

Summary of Key BCCI Directives

• Domestic Match Participation: Mandatory for national team eligibility and central contracts.

• Travel Arrangements: Team travel is expected, discouraging separate family travel. Exceptions require approval.

• Baggage Limits: Strict limits are enforced, with individual players bearing excess costs.

  • Away Long-Duration Tours (over 30 days):
    • Players: 5 pieces (3 suitcases + 2 kit bags) OR up to 150 kg
    • Support Staff: 3 pieces (2 big + 1 small suitcases) OR up to 80 kg
  • Away Short-Duration Tours (under 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

• Personal Staff Restrictions: Generally prohibited unless explicitly approved.

• Equipment Coordination: Players must coordinate with team management for dispatching items to the Centre of Excellence.

• Practice Session Attendance: Full attendance and team travel are mandatory.

• Personal Shoots: Prohibited during series or tours.

• Family Travel Policy: Partners and children (under 18) may join players on overseas tours lasting over 45 days for one visit per series (format-wise) up to two weeks.

• BCCI Engagements: Players must participate in official shoots and promotional activities.

• Tour Completion: Players must remain with the team until the scheduled end of the series or tour.