THE JHARKHAND STORY DESK
Mumbai, Jan 22: The batting maestro Virat Kohli of India has withdrawn from the first two Test matches against England over personal reasons, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) stated on Monday.
In an official statement, BCCI said, “Virat Kohli has requested the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to be withdrawn from the first two Tests of the upcoming Test series against England, citing personal reasons.”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 stated that they will shortly announce Kohli’s replacement.
BCCI extends support
While reiterating that his foremost priority has always been serving his country, Kohli talked about “certain personal situations that demand his presence and undivided attention” with team management, selectors and India captain Rohit Sharma.
“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 added.
“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 further stated.
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BCCI urges media, fans to respect Kohli’s priority
At the same time, the country’s cricket governing body has urged the media and fans to honour Kohli’s privacy during this period.
“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 statement said.
India is scheduled to participate in a five-match Test series, commencing with the initial game in Hyderabad on January 25. The second match is slated for February 2 in Vizag, while the series will culminate with the fifth and final test in Dharamshala, concluding on March 11.
Harry Brook also withdrew yesterday
Earlier on Sunday, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) announced that star batsman Harry Brook has withdrawn from the India Test series because of personal reasons.
“Harry Brook is set to return home with immediate effect for personal reasons from the England Men’s Test tour of India. He will not be returning to India. The England selectors will confirm a replacement player for the tour in due course,” the ECB said in a statement announcing Brook’s withdrawal.
