Indian cricket team’s stalwart, Virat Kohli, has opted out of the initial two Tests against England citing ‘personal reasons,’ a decision confirmed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in a statement released on Monday. The specifics of Kohli’s circumstances remain undisclosed. This withdrawal follows a similar move by Kohli in skipping the first T20I against Afghanistan for the same ‘personal reasons.’
The BCCI, while affirming Kohli’s absence, stated that he has already discussed the matter with skipper Rohit Sharma and has received the captain’s support. The Board is yet to name a replacement for Kohli, but assurances have been made that a decision will be made in due course.
The BCCI requested media and fans to respect Virat Kohli's privacy and refrain from speculating on his personal reasons.
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) January 22, 2024
– Take care and come back soon, King Kohli…!!! pic.twitter.com/eKRLXySUlL
BCCI released a statement: Mr. Virat Kohli has requested the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to be withdrawn from the first two Tests of the upcoming IDFC First Bank Test series against England, citing personal reasons.
“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 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.”
“The BCCI requests the media and fans to respect Virat Kohli’s privacy during this time and refrain from speculating on the nature of his personal reasons. The focus should remain on supporting the Indian cricket team as they embark on the upcoming challenges in the Test series.”
The impact of Kohli’s absence extends beyond his contribution, placing a significant burden on emerging talents like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, and Shreyas Iyer to shoulder increased responsibilities and deliver for the team. With the five-match Test series against England looming, the first match is scheduled in Hyderabad on January 25, followed by the second match on February 2 in Vizag.
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