Reports: Virat Kohli’s security threats force RCB to cancel practice session, four suspects arrested at Ahmedabad airport

In this post, we cover reports of security threats to Virat Kohli that led RCB to cancel their practice session and arrest of four suspects at Ahmedabad airport. In a major development, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) cancelled their only practice session before the IPL (Indian Premier League) 2024 before their all-important eliminator clash against Rajasthan Royals. It is worth noting that RCB were slated to practice at the Gujarat College Ground in Ahmedabad, but the session was cancelled without giving any reasons.

Interestingly, Bengali daily Anandabazar Patrika reported that the Gujarat police officials hinted that the primary reason for the practice session of RCB being cancelled was the security threat to star batter Virat Kohli.

Acting swiftly on the tip, the Gujarat Police arrested four suspects from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport to prevent possible terror activities. Upon arrest, several arms, sensitive video clips and communications were also caught by the law enforcement from the hideout of the accused quartet.

Furthermore, the authorities also informed Rajasthan Royals and RCB about the possible threat ahead of their Eliminator clash on Wednesday. While RR went ahead with their practice session, the latter chose not to participate in any outdoor activities.

Kohli is a national treasure; His security is our utmost priority: GJ Police

“Virat Kohli learned about the arrests after arriving in Ahmedabad. He is a national treasure, and his security is our utmost priority,” Vijay Singh Jwala, a police officer, was quoted as saying.

“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,” Vijay Singh added.

As a precautionary measure, security forces were tightened outside the hotel where RCB are staying. Additionally, a separate entry corridor was made for the cricketer, exclusively accessible by only the team and management. It is worth noting that even IPL-related media personnel aren’t allowed in.

The report also added that the RR side arrived at the ground using the green corridor, three police vehicles escorted the side and their team bus. The RR players who were present at the training session were heavily guarded by the police, with officials even patrolling the entire ground. Furthermore, Ravichandran Ashwin, Riyan Parag, and Yuzvendra Chahal decided to skip practice and stay at the hotel, whereas skipper Sanju Samson arrived late.