(Image Source: Reuters)
[Saba Sports News] The Pran Pratishtha ceremony for the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, held on Monday, January 22, captivated the nation. The event, attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saw the sanctification of Lord Rama’s idol. This significant occasion drew various celebrities from cinema, sports, and business. However, Indian cricket stars Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma were notably absent.
Both players had received invitations but were unable to attend. The Indian cricket team was in Hyderabad for a practice session on Sunday, January 21, preparing for their Test series against England. While most players, including Ravindra Jadeja and Virat Kohli, were present at the session, captain Rohit Sharma opted for a personal practice in Mumbai and only joined the team on January 22, missing the ceremony.
Virat Kohli, who was invited with his wife Anushka Sharma, also couldn’t make it due to personal reasons. This coincides with the BCCI’s announcement of Kohli’s withdrawal from the first two Tests against England. The BCCI has requested privacy for Kohli and his family, leading to his absence from the ceremony in Ayodhya.
In contrast, Ravindra Jadeja, accompanied by his wife Rivaba, was the sole member of the men’s team to attend the event. Other cricketing legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Anil Kumble, Venkatesh Prasad, and Mithali Raj were also present, adding prestige to the ceremony.