Fans of Virat Kohli will now be able to watch the former Indian captain play his 100th Test match for the country at the Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) Stadium in Mohali. The historic match was earlier scheduled to be played behind closed doors from Friday (March 4), but BCCI on Tuesday announced the gates will be opened for the spectators due to improving COVID-19 situation.
BCCI Secretary Jay Shah said in a statement that fans will now be able to witness the historic moment of Kohli becoming the 12th Indian to play in 100 Test matches for the country.
“The first Test between India and Sri Lanka to be played at the Punjab Cricket Stadium in Mohali will not be held behind closed doors,” Shah said in the statement.
“The decision to allow spectators into the ground is one taken by State Cricketing Associations and in present circumstances, is based on various factors. I have spoken with the PCA office bearers and they have confirmed that cricket fans will be able to witness the historic moment of Virat Kohli playing his 100th Test match.”
“I am really looking forward to Virat Kohli’s 100th Test and wish our champion cricketer the very best. This is an occasion for our fans to savour. May he continue to represent the country in many more matches to come.” he added.
The PCA also confirmed that spectators would be permitted in the Test match.
“The BCCI has told us to go ahead with 50 per cent crowd during the upcoming Test match. BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal had called us and informed that 50 per cent crowd will be allowed and we are now making necessary arrangements,” PCA treasurer RP Singla told PTI on Tuesday.
BCCI's decision to host the game behind closed doors due to COVID-19 cases around Mohali had received widespread criticism from the fans on social media, who also trended hashtags urging the board and state association to rethink their decision. The second Test in Bengaluru will see 50 per cent crowd attendance as well.
The PCA will be felicitating Kohli on the occasion, as India's most successful Test captain is already rated among the greats of the game with 7962 runs and 27 hundreds to his name, at an average over 50.
(With PTI inputs)
