The ongoing five-Test series in England has taken an unexpected turn as doubts loom over the participation of ace India batter Virat Kohli. Despite earlier expectations of his return for the last three Tests, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is yet to receive any communication from Kohli regarding his availability.
Kohli had withdrawn from the first two Tests in Hyderabad and Vizag, citing personal reasons. The absence of the former captain was palpable in the first Test, where India suffered a 28-run defeat. Adding to the team’s woes, KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja will also miss the second Test due to injuries.
The uncertainty surrounding Kohli’s return raises questions about India’s strategy for the remainder of the series. Fans eagerly await the BCCI’s squad announcement for the final three Tests to ascertain whether Kohli will be donning the Indian colors.
In addition to Kohli’s situation, concerns have arisen over the extent of Jadeja’s injury. A formal statement from the BCCI is expected to shed light on the all-rounder’s condition soon. On a more optimistic note, Rahul is anticipated to make a comeback during the series, providing a potential boost to the Indian team.
The second Test, scheduled to commence in Vizag on February 2nd, will be a critical juncture for India. The subsequent Tests are set to take place in Ranchi on February 15, followed by Dharamsala on February 23 and March 7, respectively.
As the BCCI prepares to release the squad for the remaining Tests, the cricketing community holds its breath, hoping for positive news regarding Virat Kohli’s return and the team’s overall performance in the challenging series against England.