Kolkata, Jan 26: The cricket board has roped in the services of South African sports psychologist Sandy Gordon to boost the morale of the Indian team ahead of its World Cup lung opener against Holland on February 12. Announcing this, BCCI president Jagmohan Dalmiya told newspersons here today that Gordon would have two sessions with the Indian players in South Africa.
BCCI sources said that February nine and ten have been fixed as tentative dates for the team's interaction with Gordon.
Dalmiya, who had a two-and-half hour meeting with the team management during which various administrative matters, logistics and preparations of the team were discussed, said the Indians would undergo extensive practice routines in two sessions daily in South Africa for 12 days from January 30.
The team, which would fly out from India on January 29, would play two practice matches against 'strong' local sides in Durban on February four and six.
The board has also decided not to allow wives of the World Cup bound cricketers to accompany them in the initial stage of the tournament.
"Wives will not be allowed to accompany the players till the team qualifies for the Super Sixes," Dalmiya said.
Skipper Sourav Ganguly, coach John Wright, physiotherapist Andrew Leipus and physical trainer Adrian Le Roux were present at the meeting. Bureau Report