Star India batter Virat Kohli has pulled out of the first two Test matches against England. The five-match Test series between the two teams is set to commence on January 25 in Hyderabad even as BCCI has confirmed a massive development. Kohli has cited personal reasons for withdrawing from the matches to be played in Hyderabad and Vizag.
BCCI stated in its press release that Kohli has spoken to captain Rohit Sharma and the team management about his decision. Moreover, the board has also cleared that it respects the cricketer's decision and has also asked everyone to respect Kohli's privacy while not speculating reasons of his absence. "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 Virat Kohli has requested the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to be withdrawn from the first two Tests of the upcoming IDFC First Bank Test series against England, citing personal reasons.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," BCCI said in an official statement.
"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," BCCI further added in its statement. Meanwhile, the board has also confirmed that the selection committee led by Ajit Agarkar will name Kohli's replacement soon.
