Virat Kohli's 100th Test celebrations have received a huge boost as Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) has confirmed that there will be 50 per cent crowd attendance for the historic Test at IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali.
Earlier the historic Test was supposed to be played behind closed doors, as per Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) directive. The decision was taken due to Covid-19 norms. However, the decision has been reversed for Kohli’s milestone event.
Jay Shah's statement
“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. The decision to allow spectators into the ground is one taken by the State Cricketing Associations and in the 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.”
“While we started off the West Indies Tour of India behind closed doors, the encouraging dip in COVID-19 cases allowed the hosting associations to permit crowds. Based on the advisories by the State Health Auhtorities 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.”
Gavaskar expressed concerns too
Former Indian cricket Sunil Gavaskar had also expressed his concern over absence of fans from the stands for the iconic event.
"Any game that you play, you want the crowd to be there. India has played without any crowds in recent times. Any performer, be it an actor, be it a cricketer, wants to play in front of the crowd. The 100th Test is very very special. Disappointing that there is going to be no crowd, but I think the decision has been taken in the greater interest. The cases have increased in and around Mohali, where the match is going to be played," Gavaskar said.
Fans await 71st ton!
While it will be a century of Tests for Kohli, the former Indian skipper will look to end the drought of centuries across formats. Kohli's last Test century came against Bangladesh in pink-ball Test in November 2019. The 33-year-old will become the 12th Indian player to make 100 appearances in red-ball format.
