- Virat Kohli, crucial for India in the upcoming Test series against South Africa, unexpectedly flies back home due to a family emergency.
- Speculations arise regarding the reason, with unconfirmed reports suggesting it may be related to Anushka Sharma’s pregnancy.
- Raturaj Gaikwad also ruled out due to a finger injury; BCCI assures Kohli’s likely return ahead of the first Test starting on December 26.
As the highly anticipated Test series between India and South Africa draws near, a sudden twist has left cricket fans in suspense. Virat Kohli, the former captain and a key player in the Indian squad, might be unavailable for the first Test scheduled to commence on December 26.
Kohli unexpectedly flew back home, citing a family emergency, the details of which remain undisclosed. However, unconfirmed reports suggest it may be related to the pregnancy period of his wife, Anushka Sharma, who is rumored to be expecting their second child. Despite some viral footage during the 2023 World Cup that sparked speculation, the couple has not officially confirmed the news.
The absence of Kohli, a stalwart in the Indian cricket team, adds an element of uncertainty to the opening Test, set to unfold at the SuperSport Park – Cricket Ground in Centurion, and concluding on December 30. Following this, the Indian team is scheduled to travel to Cape Town for the second Test starting on January 2.
Adding to India’s challenges, Raturaj Gaikwad has also been ruled out of the series due to a finger injury. However, there is a silver lining for Indian cricket enthusiasts as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has assured that Virat Kohli is likely to return in time ahead of the first Test. Kohli left for Mumbai three days ago to attend to a family emergency, and the BCCI’s reassurance provides hope for his swift return to cricketing action.
The unforeseen developments have cast a shadow over the opening Test, leaving fans eagerly awaiting updates on Kohli’s return and the team’s performance in his absence.
Also, see:
For that price? De Villiers questions IPL teams’ whopping but worthless investments