BCCI on Kohli’s Jersey Controversy: No Fixed Numbers in India A

BCCI’s Clarification: No Fixed Jersey Numbers in India A

Speaking to news agency PTI, a senior BCCI official provided much-needed context: “Mukesh wore No. 18 during the opening 'Test' match versus the Lions. But when it comes to the India A squad, there are no fixed numbers as jerseys don't have names. Anyone can pick any random number. The jersey numbers are only sacrosanct for international games. The explanation implies that if Kumar, who hasn’t been part of the 18-member squad for the England series, gets a chance to represent India in future international matches, he will retain jersey number 49, which he originally wore during his debut tour in the West Indies.

BCCI Reacts to No. 18 Jersey Controversy Hating Mukesh Kumar

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) responded on Monday to the recent online outrage after Mukesh Kumar was seen wearing Virat Kohli’s famous No. 18 jersey during an India A match against the England Lions at the St Lawrence Ground in Canterbury. The board also discussed whether they plan to retire Kohli’s jersey number, as they did for cricket legends Sachin Tendulkar and MS Dhoni.

Photos of Mukesh Kumar wearing the No. 18 jersey during the first unofficial four-day Test between India A and the England Lions quickly spread online. Many fans were angry and criticized the BCCI for allowing it. They said it was disrespectful to Kohli, who had recently retired from Test cricket. Mukesh also received numerous hate messages from fans.

The Expectations After Kohli’s Retirement

Virat Kohli isn’t just another cricketer, he’s a modern-day icon. With a wonderful career that includes over 8,000 Test runs, numerous match-winning innings, and leadership stints that transformed Indian cricket, fans naturally assumed that his number 18 jersey would be retired as a tribute.

BCCI had previously retired jersey number 10 for Sachin Tendulkar and jersey number 7 for MS Dhoni in international cricket. So when Kohli called it quits from the longest format, it seemed only fair for number 18 to join that elite list.

Fans' Reaction: Mukesh Kumar Wears No. 18

During the India A vs England Lions 1st Unofficial Test at the St. Lawrence Ground in Canterbury, fans noticed something unusual: Mukesh Kumar was wearing jersey number 18. Photos and video clips quickly went viral on social media. The outrage was swift. Thousands of fans took to Twitter (X), Instagram, and Facebook to express anger, calling it “disrespectful” to Kohli’s legacy. 

While emotions ran high, it's important to recognize the difference between India A and the senior Indian team games. BCCI has not officially retired Kohli’s jersey number yet. So technically, no rule was broken. That said, the strong emotional bond fans share with Kohli and his number 18 can’t be ignored. The expectation of retiring the jersey is a mark of deep respect for a player who gave everything for Indian cricket.