IPL 2024: Security threat to Virat Kohli forces RCB to cancel training session

The Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) had to cancel their practice session on Tuesday ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) Eliminator against the Rajasthan Royals (RR) scheduled for Wednesday, May 22. 

The session, planned at the Gujarat College Ground in Ahmedabad, was called off due to security concerns specifically involving RCB star batter Virat Kohli. The Gujarat Police confirmed the cancellation.

The RCB also decided against holding a press conference before the match due to these concerns. Additionally, four individuals were arrested over possible terrorist activities, further heightening the security situation.

"Virat Kohli learned about the arrests after arriving in Ahmedabad. He is a national treasure, and his security is our utmost priority," Vijay Singha Jwala, a police officer, said. "RCB did not want to take a risk. They informed us that there would be no practice session. Rajasthan Royals were also informed about the development, but they had no problems going ahead with their practice."

It is worth noting that Kohli has been in stellar form in the 2024 IPL season, scoring 708 runs in 14 matches at an average of 63.65, including a highest score of 113* against the Rajasthan Royals. He is on the cusp of becoming the first player in IPL history to reach 8,000 runs, currently standing at 7,971 runs, the most by any player in the league.

Both franchises were briefed about the security concerns, but the Royals opted to continue with their scheduled practice. To ensure safety, the security protocol outside RCB's hotel was intensified, with restricted access even for IPL management members.

For the Rajasthan Royals, a 'green corridor' was implemented to facilitate safe travel between the hotel and the training ground. Notably, players such as Ravichandran Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, and Riyan Parag chose to skip the practice session. RR captain Sanju Samson reportedly arrived late due to the security protocols.