BCCI backs Kohli, wants ICC to step in

The BCCI today came out in strong support of India captain Virat Kohli and requested the ICC to take note of Australian skipper Steve Smith’s “brain fade” in seeking dressing room’s advice for a DRS referral in the second Test.

The BCCI’s reaction to the controversy came after Cricket Australia called the cheating allegations against Smith outrageous.

“The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) after due deliberation and seeing the video replays of the episode steadfastly stands with the Indian Cricket Team and its Captain Mr. Virat Kohli,” said the BCCI in a statement.

“Mr. Virat Kohli is a mature and seasoned cricketer and his conduct on the field has been exemplary. Mr. Kohli’s action was supported by ICC Elite Panel Umpire Mr. Nigel Llong who rushed in to dissuade Mr. Steve Smith from taking recourse to inappropriate assistance.”

The Board wants ICC to step into the matter and is hoping the remainder of the two Tests is played in the right spirit.

“BCCI has requested the ICC to take cognizance of the fact that the Australian skipper Mr. Steve Smith in his press conference admitted to a ‘brain fade’ at that moment. BCCI sincerely hopes that the rest of the matches are played in the true spirit of cricket,” the BCCI added.

Following India’s 75-run win in the second Test yesterday, Kohli had stopped short of calling Smith a cheat but said he had seen the Australian players seeking dressing room’s advice twice before making DRS calls.