India’s former chief selector Dilip Vengsarkar has made a massive statement about Virat Kohli. The 35-year-old batter has pulled out of the first two games owing to personal issues. India’s apex cricket board divulged the decision to the media on Monday.
Rajat Patidar has already been named as the replacement early on Wednesday morning. The 30-year-old scored a blistering century for India A in a recent First-Class game. It is to be seen who will bat at number four for India.
England has left out James Anderson from the playing XI for the game on Thursday. Three spinners have been included in the playing XI. Jack Leach and Rehan Ahmed will be joined by debutant Tom Hartley.
Dilip Vengsarkar makes his thoughts clear on Kohli’s absence
Former India selector Dilip Vengsarkar has termed Virat Kohli’s absence as a huge window of opportunity. According to the former India great, this is a great chance for others to grab their opportunity.
The media asked Dilip Vengsarkar if the loss of Kohli will be felt by the Indian team. To which he replied “There will be a slight disadvantage definitely, there is no question about it. He’s one of the best batsmen in the world, and he’s in great form also.” Dilip Vengsarkar also said “I always look at it, the other way, since Virat is not there, someone else will get the chance to showcase their talent. I hope the guy who comes in will grab the opportunity with both hands.”
Meanwhile, India skipper Rohit Sharma has offered hope of a return for Pujara and Rahane. The veteran duo was not considered for the first two Tests of the England series. Speaking to the media, Rohit Sharma spoke of the reason Rajat Patidar was picked.
“By no means, the doors are closed for anyone, you know, as long as they stay fit and keep scoring runs. Anyone will be welcomed back into the setup”. Rohit Sharma also said “Leaving out an experienced player or not considering them is very hard. The amount of runs they’ve scored, the kind of experience they’ve had, the amount of games they have won for us, you know, it’s very hard to ignore all of that. But, you know, you sometimes have to bring certain players into your set-up as well.
