The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has imposed a strict policy preventing Indian players from staying with their families during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, drawing both support and debate across cricketing circles. The rule was highlighted as Team India began its campaign with a victory over the United States.
According to the Indian Express reports, players will not be allowed to have their spouses, partners, or family members stay with them for the entire duration of the World Cup. While family members may make separate arrangements independently, they will not be accommodated with the team, and the BCCI has firmly ruled out exceptions despite requests from team management.
The policy is consistent with earlier BCCI approaches aimed at fostering team focus, discipline and unity by limiting potential distractions. Previous reports suggest similar restrictions were implemented after less‑than‑ideal performances on tours, with the board believing that family presence during long competitions could divert attention from preparation and team cohesion.
The decision comes as Team India continues its World Cup journey, with high‑profile matches including the much‑anticipated clash against Pakistan scheduled for February 15 in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
'It's A Good Solution...': BCCI Vice‑President Rajeev Shukla Welcomes Pakistan's Decision To Play Team India At ICC T20 World Cup; Video
The cricketing world heaved a sigh of relief after Pakistan reversed its threat to boycott the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 match against India, scheduling the encounter for February 15 in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The change in stance came following intense negotiations involving the International Cricket Council (ICC) and both countries’ cricket boards to keep cricket’s marquee fixture intact.
Reacting to the development, Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Vice‑President Rajeev Shukla said he was “delighted” with the outcome of discussions led by ICC representatives. Shukla praised the ICC’s efforts, supervised by its chairman and officials who visited Lahore to engage with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB). He described the resolution as “amicable” and one that prioritises “cricket’s importance in the game.”
He also noted that the feelings of the Bangladesh Cricket Board were addressed during negotiations, with some relief offered to the BCB, a factor that helped smooth tensions. The board’s president has since praised the ICC’s efforts in resolving the dispute.
Shukla’s comments reflect a broader sentiment within international cricket to keep politics separate from sport and uphold the integrity of major events like the T20 World Cup, where the India‑Pakistan clash is among the most watched and commercially vital matches in the global calendar.
