Vijay Mallya attended a charity ball hosted by Virat Kohli at London for Justice and Care organisation. The Indian captain and the other cricketers looked visibly uncomfortable. Kohli says that he ‘never invited’ the former Royal Challengers Bangalore owner. But Mallya had reportedly booked Platinum seats at the ball.
Virat Kohli had hosted the ball on Monday for an organisation that tackles human trafficking. The organisation aims to provide rehabilitation, security and care for the survivors of trafficking in India. Mallya apparently made a surprise visit at the ball.
We had a great event last night in London. I would like to thank everyone who made this event possible. Thank you to all the sponsors for(1)
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) June 6, 2017(2)supporting something so close to my heart.A special thanks for all the generous donations made. Together,we can & will make a difference.
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) June 6, 2017It is said that the national cricket team along with the skipper maintained a safe distance from the tainted liquor baron. A BCCI official told PTI, “Look, Virat or his foundation never invited Mallya at the function. But typically what happens at the charity dinner is that someone who has bought a table is entitled to invite his guests. Similarly, someone who bought a table must have invited him.”
According to Daily Mail, however, Mallya had a table booked. And a platinum table at that. The table accommodates ten people and costs around 7500 pounds. Even Sachin Tendulkar was a part of the event.
Great initiative undertaken by @imVkohli to fight human trafficking. A cause we must all contribute towards. Loved being a part of the event
— sachin tendulkar (@sachin_rt) June 6, 2017Mallya apparently walked up to the players’ table and exchanged pleasantries with them. That is when the players decided to walk out fearing people’s opinion for talking to Mallya. This seems to have caused a lot of embarrassment to Mallya and Kohli.
Vijay Mallya who has unpaid debts of over Rs 9000 crores owing to the now defunct Kingfisher Airlines fled to the UK a year ago. He was arrested by UK police to be extradited, only to be granted bail and released in a few hours.
Mallya was seen attending the India-Pakistan match in the Champions Trophy. In a blatant display of arrogance, he tweeted that he will participate in all future games the team plays.
World class player World class Captain World class gentleman @imVkohli . Bravo Virat.
— Vijay Mallya (@TheVijayMallya) June 6, 2017Wide sensational media coverage on my attendance at the IND v PAK match at Edgbaston. I intend to attend all games to cheer the India team.
— Vijay Mallya (@TheVijayMallya) June 6, 2017