Virat Kohli has long been admired for not only his batting brilliance but also his unmatched fitness standards that have redefined Indian cricket. Even in the latter phase of his career, after stepping away from Tests and T20Is, Kohli remains a symbol of discipline and commitment. This reputation played a key role in the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) allowing him a special arrangement during the latest round of fitness assessments.
At the BCCI’s Center of Excellence in Bengaluru, a large group of Indian cricketers went through rigorous fitness tests on August 29 as part of preparations for the new season. However, Virat Kohli, who is currently residing in London with his family, did not travel back to India. Instead, he underwent his fitness test in England itself. According to a BCCI source quoted in a report, Virat Kohli had likely taken prior permission to complete the test abroad.
Meanwhile, several senior players including ODI captain Rohit Sharma, Test captain Shubman Gill, fast-bowling spearhead Jasprit Bumrah and others were present in Bengaluru for the tests. The Indian squad had been on a break since early August, after completing a grueling five-match Test series in England. Having played non-stop cricket for nearly a year, the players were given a month off before regrouping for upcoming assignments.
The Asia Cup in the UAE, starting September 9, will mark India’s return to action. The tournament will be played in the T20 format, with India opening their campaign against the hosts on September 10 in Dubai. Virat Kohli, however, is expected to make his comeback later, most likely during the white-ball series in Australia where India will play three ODIs.
The Bengaluru fitness camp saw a wide pool of players being tested on parameters such as strength and recovery. Among those who took part were Hardik Pandya, Mohammed Siraj, Shreyas Iyer, Sanju Samson, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel and several emerging cricketers including Ruturaj Gaikwad, Abhishek Sharma and Rinku Singh. Reports suggest that the majority cleared their assessments successfully.
A second phase of tests is planned for September and will involve players currently in rehab or returning from injury. This group includes Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja, Akash Deep and Nitish Reddy. The team physio has already shared a detailed report with the BCCI based on the first round.
What is your take on this special arrangement or treatment given to Virat Kohli by the BCCI?
