NEW DELHI: The BCCI has identified a stringent fitness program and a lack of team camaraderie as the two main issues that need to be addressed after consecutive Test series losses against New Zealand and Australia.
As TOI reported, the BCCI, coach Gautam Gambhir, captain Rohit Sharma, and top selector Ajit Agarkar met and discussed the need to limit how much time players spend with their wives or partners during extended tours.
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It was mentioned that certain players would rather travel alone and requested separate accommodations on tours.
In wake of these issues, commentator Harsha Bhogle gave his take on the current affairs in Indian cricket.
Taking to X, Bhogle posted: “Reading of the changes the BCCI is apparently suggesting for the Indian team. I don’t know how much to believe but if I had to nominate one rule to be strictly applied, it would be to ban team members from having PR agencies.”
Cricketers often collaborate with PR agencies to manage their public image, endorsements, social media presence, and media interactions.
PR agencies help cricketers maintain a polished and consistent public image, enhancing their marketability and connect cricketers with top brands and negotiate lucrative endorsement deals, maximising financial opportunities.
India had lost the Test series 0-3 against New Zealand at home in November last year as the Kiwis became the first team to achieve a whitewash over India on their own soil.
After the debacle against New Zealand at home, India also lost the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia for the first time in 10 years. Team India could not complete a hat-trick of triumphs on Australia soil as they lost the five-Test series 1-3.
Rohit Sharma’s men simply lacked the depth to challenge the Aussies for sustained periods, a prerequisite to winning a Test match.
India now gear up for a white-ball series against England at home starting from January 22 and then the ICC Champions Trophy that is scheduled to get underway from February 19.
