'How does it matter?' - Former India cricketer on Virat Kohli’s fitness test ahead of 2025-26 season
Aakash Chopra downplayed the controversy over Virat Kohli’s reported fitness test in London, calling it a potential “new normal” ahead of the 2025-26 season.
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Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra has shared his thoughts on the reports surrounding Virat Kohli’s fitness test ahead of the 2025-26 season. According to Dainik Jagran, Kohli underwent his fitness test in London, while several other Indian cricketers gave theirs at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru. Chopra stated that since there is no official confirmation yet, it is best treated as speculation and not blown out of proportion.
“These are just speculations and reports at this point in time. There is no confirmation or clarification that Virat Kohli gave his fitness Test in London and others gave it in Bengaluru. Of course, he was not here, but we have not seen pictures as well of him giving it in London. But even if he has, let us assume he did; how does it matter?” Chopra said.
The former batter further suggested that even if Kohli did take his test in London, it could actually set a positive precedent. He pointed out that in the future, other cricketers could also take the test from wherever they are, saving both time and effort. According to Chopra, this would ensure that fitness protocols are not missed because of logistical issues.
A new precedent for Indian cricket?
“Honestly, he just set the precedent that the next time if anyone is anywhere else, they can give the fitness Test from there. If someone does this once, then you draw a line in the sand that this is the rule. It may not be necessary in that rule for everyone to go to Bengaluru. If someone is available anywhere, let them do the Test there,” he added.
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Chopra concluded by saying that if the reports turn out to be true, it should be seen as a “new normal” rather than a controversy. “If there is even some truth in this, then it is a new normal. You and I are not going to get bothered or worried about it, right?” he remarked.
Meanwhile, the Indian senior men’s team has moved to Dubai for the Asia Cup 2025, starting September 9. As for Kohli, fans will have to wait a little longer to see him back in action, as he is set to return for the ODI series against Australia in October following his successful IPL 2025 campaign with Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
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