The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is looking at a more player-friendly international calendar as it seeks to address growing concerns over workload, injuries and inadequate recovery time. Following a review meeting with India’s senior team management, the board indicated that the next Future Tour Programme (FTP) cycle will be planned with greater emphasis on rest, recovery and preparation.
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia said officials have been asked to explore ways of creating more breathing space between international series. The board also wants players travelling to demanding overseas destinations to receive enough time to acclimatise, with warm-up or practice matches potentially included before major assignments.
If you enjoyed reading this article, you can help support our journalism by adding OHeraldo as a preferred source.
BCCI Focuses on Player Workload
The issue of player workload emerged as one of the major talking points during the meeting, which was attended by Test and ODI captain Shubman Gill, T20I captain Shreyas Iyer, head coach Gautam Gambhir and Centre of Excellence chief VVS Laxman.
Saikia acknowledged that the packed cricket calendar could be contributing to the rising number of injuries. He pointed towards India’s recent tour of England, where several members of the ODI squad suffered injuries after playing a lengthy Indian Premier League campaign.
According to the board secretary, the combination of domestic franchise cricket and international commitments can take a physical toll on players. The BCCI now wants its scheduling process to account for that burden more effectively.
Rest and Acclimatisation to Get Priority
The proposed FTP changes could be particularly important for tours of SENA countries — South Africa, England, New Zealand and Australia — where players often have to adapt quickly to unfamiliar conditions.
The BCCI wants future schedules to provide adequate recovery time before major series and potentially include warm-up fixtures. The idea is to ensure players are physically prepared while also giving them time to adjust to different pitches, weather and playing conditions.
The board has also said that a protocol is already in place for players returning to international cricket after injuries. Feedback from captains and the coaching staff will be incorporated into a broader strategy for managing player fitness.
Packed Calendar Remains a Major Concern
Despite the proposed changes, India’s schedule remains extremely demanding. Before the next IPL season, the team is expected to play seven Tests, 14 ODIs and 16 T20Is, in addition to participating in the Asian Games.
Saikia admitted that the sheer number of matches remains the board’s biggest challenge. He stressed that better coordination between the BCCI’s various departments, coaching staff and the Centre of Excellence would be necessary to manage the situation.
The objective is to reduce unnecessary strain without compromising India’s commitments across formats.
BCCI Dismisses Rohit Sharma Speculation
The meeting also brought renewed attention to Rohit Sharma’s international future, particularly with the 2027 ODI World Cup approaching.
Saikia pushed back against speculation that the former India captain could be left out of the World Cup plans. He pointed to Rohit’s recent performances, including his 138-run innings, as evidence that there is little reason to question his current position.
The secretary also clarified that the future of chief selector Ajit Agarkar was not discussed. Agarkar missed the meeting because he was away and could not participate virtually.
Asian Games Arrangements Assured
The BCCI also addressed concerns surrounding India’s accommodation and facilities at the Asian Games in Japan.
Saikia said the board would ensure that players and support staff receive appropriate facilities. If necessary, the BCCI is prepared to make its own arrangements to safeguard the team’s requirements.
Meanwhile, bowlers Rasikh Salam, Kartik Tyagi and Vicky Ostwal are set to travel with the Indian team for the Asian Games.
