Virat Kohli, the star Indian batsman, will likely miss the upcoming third and fourth Tests against England in Rajkot and Ranchi. His absence, initially due to personal reasons, continues to be a concern for Team India. Kohli had already opted out of the first two Tests in the five-match series.
The third Test is set to take place at Rajkot’s Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium, beginning on February 15. Following this, the penultimate Test is scheduled at JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi, starting on February 23.
Although Kohli’s involvement in the fifth Test remains uncertain, the selection committee is likely to announce the squad this week. Discussions between committee chairman Ajit Agarkar, BCCI’s top officials, and Kohli are anticipated to clarify his availability. The upcoming Tests against England will be crucial for Team India as they aim to secure a spot in the ICC World Test Championship final.
Team India faces a setback with Virat Kohli’s absence, but the return of KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja is encouraging. The key players, recovering from injuries, are expected to feature in the third Test after missing the second in Vizag. This news provides a boost to the team’s strength and performance prospects.
Kohli’s choice to skip the Tests was influenced by the impending arrival of his second child, as revealed by AB de Villiers. Notably, De Villiers, Kohli’s friend and former teammate, endorsed the decision, highlighting the significance of family priorities.
Leave a Reply