- Kohli to miss third and fourth Tests against England due to personal reasons, including the impending arrival of his second child.
- BCCI confirms Kohli’s dedication to national team but emphasizes the need for his undivided attention to personal matters.
- Uncertainty looms over Kohli’s availability for the fifth Test, while KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja, and Mohammad Siraj’s fitness remain under scrutiny.
Ex-Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli is set to miss the third and fourth Tests against England, scheduled to take place in Rajkot and Ranchi respectively. Kohli had already sat out the first two Tests due to personal reasons, which include the impending arrival of his second child with wife Anushka Sharma.
Confirmation of the pregnancy came from former South African cricketer AB De Villiers on his YouTube channel. Despite his commitment to representing his country, Kohli has informed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) that certain personal situations demand his undivided attention.
Virat Kohli committed to national duty, but some personal reasons need undivided attention
The BCCI released a statement affirming Kohli’s dedication to the national team while acknowledging the need for him to prioritize personal matters. The skipper has reportedly communicated with Captain Rohit Sharma, the team management, and selectors regarding his absence. With the fifth Test set to begin in Dharamsala on March 6, there is uncertainty surrounding Kohli’s availability for that match as well.
In addition to Kohli’s absence, India face concerns over the fitness of KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja, both of whom are nursing injuries. However, at least one of the two players, if not both, is expected to be available for the upcoming Tests. Meanwhile, fast bowler Mohammad Siraj is poised to make a comeback to the squad, adding depth to the Indian bowling attack.
The series between India and England is currently level at 1-1, with both teams eyeing victory in the remaining matches to clinch the series. As the drama unfolds, fans eagerly await updates on the team composition and strategies as India aim to maintain its stronghold on home soil.
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