To allow players downtime away from the pressure of high-stakes World Cup games in England, the Indian team management has planned various activities where the touring cricketers have had the chance to freshen up after matches and enjoy each other’s company off the field.
Called "Bonding sessions", these are vigilantly planned during long away tours and can include anything from fun games to having a simple meal in a group of four.
India has had three wins and a rain-abandoned draw amidst its first four games in the tournament and the mood in the camp is happy. The team's next game versus Afghanistan on Saturday (June 22) is still a few days away. So in the meantime, some bonding activities are planned. Players are provided with a weekly activity schedule and they are told to do things more organic in nature than forced.
"In this Indian team, the bonding sessions have been a part for some years now. It could be some fun games and at times some other activity. Right now, the players are with their families enjoying a break. Once they come back, some activities are planned," a senior BCCI official told PTI.
The team's leadership group includes captain Virat Kohli, his deputy Rohit Sharma and former skipper MS Dhoni. These three at times are handed the responsibility to carefully monitor the rest of the 15-man squad divided into groups of four for these activities.
"It is always insisted that players from different regions hang out together and at least have a meal together. Just for example, Vijay Shankar, newest member of the team will certainly feel more comfortable interacting with a Dinesh Karthik. Same language, food habits, that is natural."
“But there are times when Karthik will need to have a meal with another junior player. It’s not something that is forced but it should happen naturally. It’s not only about cricket but seniors are encouraged to speak to the junior players about other aspects of life also where they can take a cue from them," the official added.
"It could be anything from handling stardom to managing investments. The seniors with their practical experiences could help the juniors out or maybe dividing them into groups of three, with the same gym slot. Bonding during some strenuous exercises isn’t a bad idea either."
(Inputs from PTI)
