India vs Sri Lanka: Virat Kohli’s 100th Test to be played in front of spectators

Virat Kohli will not wear his 100th Test cap with no spectators in the stadium to cheer for him. The first five-day game between India and Sri Lanka in Mohali will be played in front of spectators, the BCCI said, reversing an earlier decision to hold the game behind closed doors.

In a statement on Tuesday, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah said that cricket fans will be able to witness a Kohli’s landmark game in the stadium. The Punjab Cricket Association confirmed that the Test match will be held at 50% stadium capacity. 

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“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,” Jay 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,” he added. 

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Shah said that the authorities took the decision after India witnessed a fall in COVID-19 cases. The BCCI chief added that he is looking forward to Kohli’s 100th Test. 

“Based on the advisories by the state health authorities, fans were able to witness the games in Kolkata and Dharamsala while UPCA had Lucknow T20I without crowds owing to polling a day before the 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.”

Kohli has not scored an international century in over two years. His last three-figure inning came against Bangladesh in India’s first pink-ball Test match in 2019. 

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“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. 

He added that the PCA is prepared to arrange for tickets in the short period. 

“In such a short period, we will release online tickets from tomorrow,” he said on Tuesday.