Among the listed rules for the players, the BCCI highlighted that domestic tournaments is mandatory for selection and tops the list followed by rules for family travel, baggage allowance, and restrictions on personal staff, ad shoots and a ban on players returning home if matches end early. Emphasising the importance of the rules, the BCCI also stated that any player who doesn’t comply with it may face disciplinary action which includes sanctions from playing tournaments conducted by the board including the Indian Premier League and deduction in annual contract and match fee.

It was also affirmed that any player who sought for an exception from the freshly issued guidelines is to receive prior approval from the head coach and the chief selector. Harbhajan said he did not agree with that aspect of the guidelines.

“In our times, it used to be written that prior approval of BCCI was needed on certain matters. So, for approvals, drop a mail to BCCI and ask for permission. Why does the head coach need to get into all this? That is not his job,” Harbhajan told PTI.

“His (Gambhir’s) job is on the field and in the technical aspects where we are lacking. Administrative part should be left with competent people in the BCCI,” said referring to his former India teammate.