The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has confirmed that Indian players will not be allowed to stay with their families during the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, reaffirming a long-standing policy designed to ensure maximum focus during major international tournaments.
According to Indian media reports, the team management approached the BCCI after players requested permission for family members to accompany them during the tournament. However, the board declined the request, choosing to uphold its existing guidelines.
Limited Family Access Under Revised Guidelines
While players may make personal arrangements for their families, they will not be permitted to stay together during the tournament. Restricting family stays is not a new measure, as the BCCI revised its policies following India’s heavy defeat against Australia during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Under the revised rules, players are allowed to have wives or family members join them for up to 14 days, but only if an overseas tour exceeds 45 days in duration.
Policy Tightened After COVID-19 Era
During the COVID-19 pandemic, players were allowed to stay with their families throughout tours due to bio-bubble restrictions. However, these relaxations were rolled back after India’s tour of Australia last year, as the BCCI moved to reduce distractions during high-pressure assignments.
Private Travel and Controlled Environment
To compensate for the absence of family support, the Indian team will travel via private charter flights throughout the T20 World Cup.
Several players have also retained personal chefs, though these chefs are required to stay in separate nearby hotels. Meals will be prepared off-site and delivered to the team in line with the board’s controlled environment policy.
Performance Over Comfort
The BCCI’s strict approach reflects its commitment to maintaining discipline, concentration, and performance. By limiting external distractions and closely managing players’ surroundings, the board continues to prioritize results over personal comfort during marquee tournaments.
