By: Aditya Ahuja
In a surprising announcement on Monday, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) revealed that Indian batting maestro Virat Kohli has opted to withdraw from the first two Tests against England, citing personal reasons.
The BCCI released an official statement, stating, “Virat Kohli has requested the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to be withdrawn from the first two Tests of the upcoming Test series against England, citing personal reasons.” The BCCI assured that Kohli’s replacement will be announced shortly.
“Virat has spoken to Captain Rohit Sharma, the team management and the selectors and has emphasized that while representing the country has always been his top priority, certain personal situations demand his presence and undivided attention,” the statement further read.
“The BCCI respects his decision and the Board and team management has extended its support to the star batter and is confident in the abilities of the remaining squad members to step up and deliver commendable performances in the Test series.”, it added.
In light of this development, the cricket governing body in India appealed to both the media and fans to respect Virat Kohli’s privacy during this time. The BCCI urged against speculation on the nature of Kohli’s personal reasons and emphasized maintaining focus on supporting the Indian cricket team as they prepare for the high-profile series.
The BCCI assured that they will announce Kohli’s replacement shortly.
India are set to play a five- match Test series, the first of which will be held in Hyderabad on January 25. The second match of the series will be played on February 2 in Vizag. The series will conclude with the fifth and final test to be held in Dharamshala on March 11.