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BCCI Reacts To Backlash Over Mukesh Kumar Wearing Virat Kohli 18 Jersey For India A

Aakash Saini

Mukesh Kumar seen in Virat Kohli jersey [Source: @imAnthoni_, @moiz_sports/x]Mukesh Kumar seen in Virat Kohli jersey [Source: @imAnthoni_, @moiz_sports/x]

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reacted to the backlash over Indian fast bowler Mukesh Kumar wearing jersey number 18 during a four-day match against England Lions in Canterbury. It is worth noting that Kumar’s jersey sparked much criticism from Indian cricket fans, particularly from Virat Kohli enthusiasts, considering the legendary batter also wears the same number.

A senior BCCI official recently clarified that in India A squad, there are no fixed numbers as their jerseys do not have player names. The official further clarified that the jersey numbers are only “sacrosanct” for international matches.

BCCI defends Mukesh Kumar over number 18 jersey

On Day 2 of the four-day unofficial Test match between India A and England Lions in Canterbury, fans spotted Indian fast bowler Mukesh Kumar wearing retired Virat Kohli’s number 18 jersey, leading to much outrage on social media.

Clarifying Mukesh Kumar’s move, a senior BCCI official explained that there are no fixed numbers in India A matches and players can pick any number they want. While speaking with PTI and as quoted by Sportstak, the BCCI official said:

“Anyone can pick any random number. Jersey numbers are only sacrosanct for international games.”

Apart from generating controversy among online fans, Mukesh Kumar bowled his heart out on a high-scoring Canterbury surface against England Lions. Toiling away for 25 overs, the speedster picked up the important wickets of centurion Max Holden, hosts captain James Rew and all-rounder Rehan Ahmed in quick succession to claim figures of 3-92.

Among other Indian heroes, Karun Nair plundered a huge 204 from 281 balls in the first innings while Sarfaraz Khan and wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel unleashed swift 90s as India A mounted 557. Facing a 30-run deficit, each of India’s top four batters clattered brisk half-centuries in the second innings as the match turned out to be a high-scoring draw.