(Image source from: Twitter.com/BCCI)

In a positive turn of events for Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and other prominent members of the Indian cricket squad, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reportedly permitted the inclusion of family members during the ICC Champions Trophy in Dubai. This news offers substantial comfort to the athletes, who had previously faced a complete ban on family presence following a stringent 10-point directive issued by the board following the Border-Gavaskar Trophy incident. As per reports, while the BCCI has approved the presence of players' spouses and families in Dubai, it comes with a strict guideline. Family members will be permitted to join the players for just one match, with players able to discuss and submit requests to the BCCI for this arrangement. The board will subsequently take the necessary steps to facilitate it.

Previously, the board had allowed only a two-week window for families to accompany players on international tours lasting more than 45 days, while also placing limitations on personal assistants and commercial engagements. Initially, for shorter events like the Champions Trophy, family presence was not permitted. However, in light of the event's significance, the board has now permitted each player to have family members present for one match. The specific match for which players will seek the board's approval has not yet been disclosed. In announcing this updated policy, the BCCI expressed its aim to "maintain professional standards and operational efficiency during tours and series," as stated in their communication to PTI.

The Board cautioned that "any exceptions or alterations must receive prior endorsement from the Chairman of the Selection Committee and the Head Coach. Failure to adhere may result in disciplinary measures deemed suitable by the BCCI." Additionally, the BCCI maintains the authority to impose disciplinary actions against any player, which could include sanctions preventing their participation in all tournaments organized by the BCCI, such as the Indian Premier League, and deductions from their retainer or match fees as stipulated in their contracts. India's first match is scheduled against Bangladesh on February 20, followed by contests against Pakistan on February 23 and New Zealand on March 02.