BCCI recommends Kohli for Khel Ratna, Rahane for Arjuna

Virat Kohli is likely to get the presitiogious award Khel Ratna in for his outstanding performance in the game of cricket. BCCI has already sent the names of Virat Kohli to Ministry of Sports. 

Kohli has shown some outstanding cricketing skills in the game in recent time. Kohli, who was awarded Man of the Tournament award in the recent World T20 tournament, is going through form of his life.

The test captain was hailed for single-handedly taking India into the semi finals of the world T20. However, there has been no official announcement but a source close to BCCI have confirmed the sending of recommendetion lettir to the BCCI.

If Kohli wins, he would become only the third cricketer after the iconic Sachin Tendulkar and the country’s most successful captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni to win India’s highest sporting honour.

BCCI sources confirmed the development. It is after a gap of four years that a cricketer has been recommended for the Khel Ratna.

The prestigious Khel Ratna award carries a cash price of Rs. 7.5 lakh in addition to a citation, while the Arjuna awardee receives a cash prize of Rs. five lakh and a citation.

Kohli is enjoying a fine run of form in the ongoing Indian Premier League. He was also at the top of his game in the preceding ICC World T20, singlehandedly guiding India to wins over Australia, Pakistan and Bangladesh.

For his exploits, Kohli was named the World T20 Player of the Tournament and skipper of the World T20 team.

Rahane equalled the record of holding the highest number of catches in a Test innings during India’s series win against Sri Lanka last year under Kohli’s leadership.

According to sources, Kohli is facing competition from squash champion Deepika Pallikal, golfer Anirban Lahiri, Asian Games gold medallist shooter Jitu Rai and runner Tintu Luka.

With PTI Inputs