Respect That: VVS Laxman On Virat Kohli's Decision To Return Home For The Birth Of His 1st Child

VVS Laxman, the former Indian batsman, has come out in support of charismatic Indian skipper, Virat Kohli, on his decision to skip the last three Tests of the upcoming four-match series against Australia in order to be with his wife, Anushka Sharma, who is due to deliver the couple’s first baby in January.

Kohli’s decision to skip the last three Tests of the all-important Border-Gavaskar Trophy has received mixed reactions from fans. While a few have expressed their disappointment at the prospect of not seeing the champion cricketer in action as the Indians aim to defend the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, others have hailed Virat for keeping family ahead of everything.

VVS Laxman, who himself missed a couple of Ranji Trophy games at the time of the birth of his first child way back in 2006-07, feels that one should respect Virat Kohli’s decision.

“I believe you have to respect that. Yes, ultimately you are a professional cricketer but you are also a family man, and you also respect what is good for your family. So, I believe we have to respect that decision. It is a very important phase of your life,” VVS Laxman told IANS.

“I remember myself missing a couple of Ranji Trophy matches to be with my wife for the delivery of my daughter. It is a very important feeling, especially when you are going to get your first child,” Laxman recalled.

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‘Chance for a youngster to become a hero in Virat Kohli’s absence’- VVS Laxman

VVS Laxman further reckoned that while the Indian team will certainly miss Virat Kohli in the Test series, his absence will be an ideal chance for the youngsters to step up to the occasion and showcase his talent on the global stage.

“Virat has been a fantastic captain. He will be missing three Test matches. But I think it will be an opportunity for some youngster or some other player to step up and prove his credentials because there’s no doubt that Kohli’s absence will affect the Indian team,” Laxman said.

”But at the same time, it will be an opportunity for a youngster or some other batsman to show what his calibre is and become a hero for the team. It’s because when you perform in places like England, Australia or South Africa, your reputation in the game is enhanced, as well as your confidence level, so far your game is concerned, will definitely grow,” VVS Laxman siged off.

Virat Kohli will lead India in six white-ball internationals and the first Test of the four-match series at the Adelaide Oval before returning to India.