From Field To Fork: BCCI Tightens Dietary Rules For Team India

Soumyajit Dutta

BCCI to issue only two chefs for Indian cricketers during tours [Source: @NBT_Sports/X.com]BCCI to issue only two chefs for Indian cricketers during tours [Source: @NBT_Sports/X.com]

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has added another layer to its recently introduced 10-point disciplinary framework by imposing restrictions on players' food arrangements during tours. This move aims to strengthen team bonding and ensure consistency in dietary practices. 

While the BCCI seeks to maintain a balance between individual preferences and team unity, these new guidelines, especially the dietary restriction will significantly impact the team's overall dynamics.

BCCI Puts Restrictions on Personal Chefs

As per a report from Times Of India, in a bid to streamline team operations, the BCCI has decided to limit the number of personal chefs accompanying players on long tours. Instead, the board will provide two dedicated chefs to cater to the entire team’s dietary requirements. This initiative is designed to address logistical and security concerns while maintaining high-quality nutrition standards for the players.

The board’s new policy comes after several players raised objections about personal chefs accessing team-only areas, such as dining halls. To address these concerns, the BCCI has proposed an alternative: personal chefs can deliver meals to the team hotel’s concierge, and the hotel staff will serve the food to the players. This arrangement ensures adherence to the team’s privacy while accommodating individual dietary needs.

The 'Two-Chef' Problem

One of the primary challenges identified by the BCCI is whether two chefs can meet the diverse dietary requirements of all players. With athletes following tailored nutrition plans to optimize fitness and recover from injuries, personalized meals have become crucial. Some players, particularly those who have overcome significant injuries, rely on specific ingredients and cooking methods to maintain peak performance.

“Certain players have unique dietary needs, which their personal chefs are adept at managing. While the board’s initiative addresses team cohesion, it may require additional resources to meet the varied demands,” a BCCI source elaborated, as quoted by TOI.

Part of a Broader Disciplinary Framework

The new food restrictions align with the BCCI’s broader efforts to instill discipline and professionalism within the team. Recently, the board introduced a stringent 10-point policy, which includes mandatory participation in domestic matches for national team eligibility, restrictions on personal staff, including chefs, during tours, full attendance at practice sessions and team events, and limits on personal endorsements and activities during tours. 

These measures were implemented after a challenging Test season, where India faced significant defeats, including a loss in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and a 3-0 series sweep in New Zealand. The BCCI’s guidelines aim to reduce “star culture” and promote unity and focus among players.