Virat Kohli stunned the Indian fans on Monday with very serious news. It was reported that the 35-year-old has pulled out of the first two Tests vs England. The former India skipper was part of the team for the South Africa series.
This news will surely throw a spanner in the works of the Indian team for the England series. A new headache has arisen on who will bat at the number four spot for India. One has to remember the selectors haven’t included either Rahane or Pujara for the series.
England’s tour begins with the first Test to be played in Hyderabad on Thursday. India’s cricket board also released a statement minutes after the news came to light. It was reported that Virat Kohli was set to go to Ayodhya. The cricketer though wasn’t seen and hours later the board confirmed this news on Twitter.
Virat Kohli’s absence set to hamper India?
India’s former skipper and batting star Virat Kohli will not be part of the first two Tests vs England. The 35-year-old has decided to take some time off due to personal issues. The board has also asked the fans to respect the privacy of Virat Kohli and his family.
According to a statement from the board which read “Virat has spoken to Captain Rohit Sharma, the team management and the selectors and has emphasized that while representing the country has always been his top priority, certain personal situations demand his presence and undivided attention,”
As per the Board’s statement further read “The board requests the media and fans to respect Virat Kohli’s privacy during this time and refrain from speculating on the nature of his reasons. The focus should remain on supporting the Indian cricket team as they embark on the upcoming challenges in the Test series”
According to reports, the selectors could announce a replacement very soon. The fans will be excited to know who the replacement will be. Many are expecting Sarfaraz Khan to get his maiden India call-up soon. The young batter has been in terrific run-scoring form in recent times.
Here’s how the fans reacted –
With kohli out ..I am scared abt this series #indvseng
— Ansh Sharma (@XllAnsh) January 22, 2024
This means, there is no cricketing action for me until 15th Feb!
But anyway! Stay stronger Kohli saab!
Comeback even stronger!?@imVkohli— DEADLY VIPER™ ? (@CrazyCricKing) January 22, 2024
Kohli kyu nahi khel Raha 2 matches?? ?
— Mahiya18 (@18mahi18) January 22, 2024
Sarfaraz or Rajat Patidar I would happily have one of them in the squad for the first two games in the absence of Kohli!
— Cricket? Lover // ICT Fan Account (@CricCrazyV) January 22, 2024
This is how Virat Kohli requested Captain Rohit Sharma for his personal leave ! ? pic.twitter.com/AZUmwgoW6H
— ???????? ? (@ImHydro45) January 22, 2024
Virat Kohli pulls out of the first two Tests against England due to personal reasons. pic.twitter.com/WM2es4FEf2
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) January 22, 2024
Virat Kohli will miss the first 2 Test against England due to Personal reasons. pic.twitter.com/Sg900sOaUa
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) January 22, 2024
