India’s batting mainstay, Virat Kohli, may not take part in the third Test against England as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) selectors remain uninformed about his availability, reports suggested. Initially, the BCCI declared Kohli’s withdrawal from the first two Tests against England, citing personal reasons.
The official statement from BCCI stated, “Virat Kohli has requested the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to be withdrawn from the first two Tests of the upcoming Test series against England, citing personal reasons.”
While the cricket governing body urged media and fans to respect Kohli’s privacy during this period, the statement emphasized maintaining focus on supporting the Indian cricket team amid the upcoming challenges in the Test series.
In response to Kohli’s absence, right-handed batsman Rajat Patidar was summoned to replace him in the first two Test matches against England. Patidar, who debuted in international cricket on December 21, opened for the ‘Men in Blue’ against South Africa in the 3rd ODI, scoring 22 runs from 16 balls with a strike rate of 137.50.
India faced a setback in the absence of Kohli, suffering a 28-run defeat against England in the first Test match held in Hyderabad. Kohli’s recent on-field appearance was during the T20I series against Afghanistan the previous month, where he contributed a quickfire 29 and a golden duck in the two matches he played.
The uncertainty surrounding Kohli’s participation in the third Test adds an element of suspense to India’s lineup against England, highlighting the selectors’ current lack of information regarding the star player’s intentions. As the cricketing community awaits updates, speculation looms over whether Kohli will be part of the crucial upcoming encounter.
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