Virat Kohli (X.com)
Virat Kohli, Indian cricket’s maestro and a key figure, has been missing in action for nearly a month now due to undisclosed personal reasons. Amid speculations of his alleged return, Aakash Chopra has backed Kohli’s silence on the matter and upheld his right to privacy.
The ongoing five-game Test series between India and England will enter its third game on February 15th at Rajkot. Meanwhile, Indian stalwart Virat Kohli, who missed the initial two games due to unavoidable personal reasons, is still questionable for the rest of the series.
As per speculations doing rounds on the internet, Kohli could extend his personal leave for the next two Tests, and his availability for the final game is also uncertain.
Amid much confusion and wild speculations, former Indian cricketer turned commentator Aakash Chopra came forward in defense of Kohli.
In a video uploaded on his YouTube channel, Chopra says that while AB de Villiers spilled some beans on the alleged reason behind Virat’s absence, one must only believe the words that come out of Kohli’s mouth.
"AB de Villiers spilled the beans slightly but we have no idea at all what exactly is happening in his life. Personally, I won't try to find out as well. We will get to hear once he is comfortable. You also don't know what goes on in my life. I only share what I want to share," Chopra said.
Also, Chopra added that one must not speculate on what’s happening in the batter’s life as he is entitled to the right to privacy.
Not only that, the former opening batter opined that Virat Kohli is a human before he is the nation’s pride. He has always kept his personal life under wraps, and fans must respect that. Kohli has no obligations towards anyone whatsoever to be answerable and reveal the exact cause behind his prolonged and abrupt absence.
"Similarly, you also share with others whatever you want to share about your life. There is no obligation that you need to tell the entire world what's happening in your life. So Virat Kohli has taken a break. He had asked for privacy through BCCI or BCCI did it themselves, so we will maintain that," he added.
Aakash Chopra concluded by saying that Virat Kohli has asked for a fair break, which he deserves after having served so many years on the Indian cricket team. Additionally, since the highest authority, the BCCI, has maintained his right to privacy, it’s unnecessary for others to speculate and violate his rights.
 "Akshita Patel")
