Veteran Indian cricketer Virat Kohli has spoken out regarding the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) recent policy that limits the presence of players’ families during tours. At 36 years old, Kohli played a crucial role in leading India to their third Champions Trophy victory, adding to the titles from 2002 and 2013. He emphasized the significant support families provide during challenging times on the road.

In response to India’s 1-3 defeat in the Test series against Australia earlier this year, the BCCI implemented a regulation outlining that players’ spouses and children may join them on tours exceeding 45 days only after the initial two weeks, with a cap of 14 days for their stay.

“It’s really hard for others to fathom how stabilizing it is to reunite with your family amidst the pressures of competition,” Kohli remarked at the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) Innovation Lab Indian Sports Summit prior to the IPL 2025, as reported by ESPNcricinfo.

Kohli articulated his disappointment at the lack of understanding surrounding the emotional support that family offers. “People who don’t see the complete picture often suggest keeping families away, without grasping the benefits they bring,” he stated.

The prolific batsman, who recently became the fastest to reach 14,000 runs in ODIs—surpassing Sachin Tendulkar—believes that having family nearby equips players to approach their game with a clearer sense of accountability.

“If you ask any player whether they want their family around, the answer is always yes. I prefer not to retreat to my room and feel isolated. I want to embrace normalcy, knowing I can return to life after fulfilling my responsibilities on the field,” Kohli explained.

During the Champions Trophy, Kohli’s wife Anushka Sharma passionately supported him from the stands, and following India’s victorious final against New Zealand in Dubai, their heartfelt celebration together quickly gained popularity on social media. Indian captain Rohit Sharma’s wife Ritika Sajdeh and their daughter Samaira were also seen celebrating during the tournament, while Kohli delivered remarkable performances, including a century against Pakistan and an 84-run innings against Australia in the semi-final.

The upcoming Freestyle Chess Grand Slam Tour is set to welcome an impressive lineup of Indian chess players, as Grandmaster Vidit Gujrathi has qualified for the competition’s second leg in Paris next month. Gujrathi secured his place in the Paris event by defeating Richard Rapport with a score of 1.5 to 0.5, marking him as the 12th and final participant in this leg of the tour.

Gujrathi secured his spot by triumphing in the Freestyle Chess Paris Play-in, enhancing an already talented group that includes reigning world champion D Gukesh, Tata Steel Chess winner R Praggnanandhaa, and world No. 5 Arjun Erigaisi.

Gukesh, who will participate in all five legs of the tournament as the reigning champion, had a challenging start at the inaugural Grand Slam event in Weissenhaus, Germany. The 18-year-old faced difficulties, ultimately finishing eighth out of ten competitors without securing a victory.

For Gujrathi, the beginning of April will prove particularly demanding, as he heads to Paris just four days after his wedding to Nidhi Kataria, a professional homeopathic doctor. The Paris leg of the tour will run from April 7 to 14—exactly two months after the Weissenhaus competition.

In a candid remark, Gujrathi shared, “I have my wedding in early April, and now probably Paris will be the place where I go for honeymooning because there’s no time. As soon as I get married, I’ll be flying out, it looks like, but I will need help with the visa for my fiancé—that will be useful!” This highlights the challenges he faces in balancing personal commitments with his professional aspirations.

At 30 years old, Gujrathi brings a wealth of experience, having been part of the Indian team that achieved a groundbreaking gold medal performance at the Chess Olympiad last year. His journey through the competition also included notable victories over compatriot M Pranesh and Amin Tabatabaei, solidifying his readiness for the challenges ahead in Paris.

New Zealand’s Tim Robinson pulled off a jaw-dropping catch to dismiss Shadab Khan in the 1st T20I against Pakistan, leaving the cricketing world in awe. The stunning effort at Hagley Oval, Christchurch quickly went viral, with fans comparing it to Glenn Phillips’ iconic catches in past tournaments.

New Zealand dismantles Pakistan with all-round performance

The Kiwis outclassed Pakistan in all aspects of the game, securing a 9-wicket victory to go 1-0 up in the five-match series. Michael Bracewell’s decision to bowl first proved spot on, as Pakistan collapsed for just 91 runs.

Kyle Jamieson tore through the top order, taking 3 wickets for 8 runs.

Jacob Duffy ran through the middle order with 4 wickets, ensuring Pakistan never recovered.

Only Khushdil Shah (32 runs) showed some resistance, preventing an even worse total.

Chase sealed in just 10.1 overs

New Zealand’s chase was effortless, with Tim Seifert leading the way with 44 runs before falling to Abrar Ahmed. By then, the damage was done, and the Black Caps cruised to victory in just 10.1 overs.

Tim Robinson’s catch steals the spotlight

Amid the bowling brilliance and batting dominance, it was Tim Robinson’s spectacular grab that became the moment of the match. His diving effort to dismiss Shadab Khan drew comparisons to Glenn Phillips’ stunning catches in the ICC tournaments.

The clip of the breathtaking catch quickly went viral, with cricket fans worldwide praising Robinson’s athleticism.

Pakistan captain acknowledges team’s struggles

Following the defeat, Pakistan skipper Salman Ali Agha admitted his team was outplayed but remained optimistic.”It was difficult, we weren’t up to the mark, but we need to regather (ahead of Dunedin). They bowled really well, in great areas, and there was a bit of seam movement as well,” he said.

With three debutants in the squad, Agha emphasized the importance of gaining experience and bouncing back in the next match. Pakistan will now look to recover in the 2nd T20I on Tuesday in Dunedin, hoping to put up a better fight.