There is some good news for the Team India cricketers before the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 gets underway for them in Dubai this week. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has made a significant exception by allowing players’ families to attend one match of the tournament, which is being organized for the first time since 2017. This development means that Anushka Sharma, the wife of star player Virat Kohli, will have the opportunity to support him in the upcoming matches, starting with the game against Bangladesh on February 20.
The BCCI’s decision comes as a relief not just for Kohli but also for other players, such as KL Rahul and his wife Athiya Shetty, along with Indian skipper Rohit Sharma’s wife Ritika Sajdeh. The board has traditionally been strict about family attendance during overseas tours, often not permitting any family members. However, considering the significance of the Champions Trophy, they have allowed tur players to invite their families for one match only.
India will play against Bangladesh, arch-rivals Pakistan, and New Zealand on February 20, February 23, and March 2, respectively. The tournament will also feature a semifinal in Dubai, with the final potentially taking place at the same location if India progresses that far. This unique allowance has generated excitement among players and their families as they prepare for the high-stakes matches ahead.
As reported by ‘Dainik Jagran’, the BCCI’s permission comes with rigorous conditions. Each player is expected to select one match for their family attendance, and they must collectively submit a request to the BCCI to finalize the arrangements. This structured approach maintains the professionalism that the BCCI emphasizes while trying to accommodate the emotions of the players and their families.
The BCCI has previously imposed restrictions on family stays during extensive tours, often limiting them to two weeks or banning personal staff altogether. Although they originally did not allow family members for shorter tours like the Champions Trophy, they recognized the importance of this cricketing event and decided to make adjustments this time around. It is yet to be disclosed which match players will opt for their family’s presence, fueling speculation and anticipation.
In a statement regarding this decision, the BCCI stressed the importance of maintaining ‘professional standards and operational efficiency’ during tours and series. The new policy mandates that any exceptions to the general rules must get prior approval from both the Chairman of the Selection Committee and the Head Coach. They cautioned that non-compliance could lead to disciplinary action, which could include barring a player from participating in BCCI-conducted tournaments, including the Indian Premier League (IPL), or even the deduction of match fees from their contracts.
The excitement surrounding this Champions Trophy has been amplified by the possibility that families can support the players, especially for someone like Anushka Sharma. Her attendance at the matches not only adds a personal touch to the players’ experiences but also serves as a morale booster during this competitive event.
India’s campaign kicks off against Bangladesh on February 20, followed closely by a high-pressure clash against Pakistan. These games are sure to attract massive audiences, and the presence of players’ families is expected to enhance the emotional landscape in the stadium. Players frequently express gratitude for the support they receive from their families, and the ability to have loved ones in attendance at a crucial tournament like this is invaluable.
Looking forward, the impact of this policy change might extend beyond just this tournament. By showing flexibility in allowing families, the BCCI could set a precedent for future tours, potentially altering how they approach family attendance norms. The anticipation for these matches, especially with Anushka Sharma and other families cheering for their partners, adds a layer of intensity to what is already a high-stakes competition.
In conclusion, the BCCI’s decision to allow Anushka Sharma and the families of other players to attend one match of the ICC Champions Trophy has generated excitement and positivity, despite the strict conditions placed on the attendance. As the tournament unfolds, players will not only focus on their performance on the field but also appreciate the cherished presence of their loved ones, an essential source of strength during the competition.
