BCCI under scanner for allowing Virat Kohli to have his fitness tests done in London - Reports

Virat Kohli now resides in London with his family.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) reportedly made a special exception for senior batter Virat Kohli by allowing him to undergo his mandatory fitness test in London, even as the rest of the national squad reported for tests at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru last week.

This is a rare move that has all the makings of an unnecessary talking point in Indian cricket before the Asia Cup 2025.

Top players, including Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Shubman Gill, and Mohammed Siraj, were evaluated on August 29, 30 and 31 at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence as part of the fitness tests, which are being conducted in advance of the busy international season that begins later this year

As per Dainik Jagran, Virat Kohli, who resides in London with his wife, Anushka Sharma, and their two kids, was allowed to complete his fitness test under supervision in London, and a report was sent to BCCI. However, this special permission by the BCCI to Virat Kohli had put the Indian board under the scanner.

BCCI slammed for showing preferential treatment to Virat Kohli

Only available for One-Day Internationals, Kohli has retired from T20Is and tests. He is expected to be included in the team for the forthcoming ODI series in Australia in October and November.

The board received individual fitness evaluations from the team of BCCI strength and conditioning trainers and physiotherapists, which included Kohli’s evaluation from London.

According to the newspaper, a top BCCI official acknowledged that Kohli “would have taken prior approval” to conduct the test abroad, but he did not specifically address the departure from regular protocol.

However, BCCI showing preferential treatment to Virat Kohli has ignited a debate about whether other players, especially those who are recuperating overseas or have personal obligations outside of India, could receive similar concessions in the future.

The BCCI has taken a tougher stand on fitness standards in recent years as player workload management and injuries have been more sensitive issues. It is increasingly common practice to require clearances prior to important series or tournaments in order to ensure optimal physical preparedness and avoid last-minute pullouts.

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