Virat Kohli’s personal bodyguard has been accused of misbehaving with journalists in the ongoing ODI series between India and England. Several scribes took to social media to slam the behaviour of Kohli’s security personnel. They even urged the Board of Control for Cricket in India to take strict action against the accused. Security personnel often protect high-profile cricketers during their public appearances, but it is the first instance that a private bodyguard is travelling with the player during a bilateral assignment.

The rude behaviour has sparked criticism, with one of the journalists revealing that this person is associated with star batter Kohli. Another one questioned the BCCI on whether a centrally contracted player is permitted to keep a personal bodyguard on an overseas tour.

The controversy started after a reporter alleged that Virat’s bodyguard abused and intimidated a media person who was standing in the designated media zone with an accreditation card.

Subhayan Chakraborty of RevSportz and Abhishek Tripathi of Jagran News highlighted the incident.

After Kohli boarded the team bus, the bodyguard shouted at a journalist, who informed the security person that he was a member of the media. However, his words were ignored by the bodyguard, who continued to abuse him.

It was claimed that the same person had misbehaved in the past as well, and he once again crossed the line despite the player entering the team bus.

Are personal bodyguards allowed on tours?

The BCCI doesn’t allow personal security guards during overseas tours. Under the new guidelines, players have no right to travel with personal staff, including private security personnel. The players are provided security by the BCCI and the local authorities.

Will BCCI punish Virat Kohli?

The BCCI hasn’t reacted to the new controversy. However, if it is found that Virat is travelling with his personal security, it is a clear violation of the rules and regulations. It could lead to an internal review by the team management and the board officials.

If a player is found guilty, a disciplinary action could be initiated, ranging from warnings to penalties.