'BCCI Fully Respects and Supports..': Jay Shah Backs Virat Kohli

image-lshkkbdeVirat Kohli has missed an entire Test series for the first time in his career 

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Secretary Jay Shah on Saturday announced that star batsman Virat Kohli will not be participating in the remaining three Test matches against England, citing personal reasons for his absence.


BCCI stands by Kohli’s personal leave from England Test series

Kohli, who had already missed the first two Tests of the series held in Hyderabad and Vizag, had previously communicated his decision to withdraw from the rest of the matches to BCCI officials, the selection committee, and the Indian team management.

Shah highlighted the board's complete support for Kohli's decision, stating, "The BCCI fully respects and supports Kohli’s decision." He further noted that the BCCI, along with the selectors and team management, are prepared to extend all necessary support to Kohli during this period.


The announcement comes amid widespread speculation regarding Virat Kohli's participation in the series. His absence is a significant blow to the Indian team, considering his contributions and form in the international cricket circuit. 

The BCCI subsequently released the squad for the remaining matches, excluding Kohli. The fitness of players Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul remains under review by the BCCI medical team, with their inclusion in the playing XI pending clearance.

The series is set to continue without Kohli, with the third Test scheduled to begin on February 15, 2024, in Rajkot. This will be followed by the fourth Test in Ranchi starting on February 23, and the final Test of the series will take place in Dharamsala from March 7, 2024.

The Indian cricket community and fans will undoubtedly miss Kohli's presence on the field, but the focus now shifts to the team's performance in the upcoming matches as they play the series without one of their key players.