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All eyes are glued on Indian's squad announcement for the third Test against England which is scheduled to be played in Rajkot from February 15. With series locked at 1-1 following India's 106-run victory over England in the second Test in Visakhapatnam, Indian team management will look to field their best squad against dented Ben Stokes' brigade. However, captain Rohit Sharma, head coach Rahul Dravid and chief selector Ajit Agarkar are left with limited choices, especially, with the uncertainty looming over Virat Kohli's return for the third Test. Ravindra Jadeja is also set to miss the entire series against England after sustaining hamstring injury during first Test, which also ruled him out of the second match in Vizag.
India to announce squad for 3rd Test on Feb. 6 or Feb.7
Meanwhile, a top source privy to the development has confirmed Sports Tak that India's squad for the third Test against England is most likely to be announced on February 7 or latest by February 8.
“India's squad for the third Test is most likely will be announced tomorrow (February 7) or day after (February 8),” the top source confirmed Sports Tak.
The third Test might see Mohammed Siraj and KL Rahul walking into their playing XI after missing out on the second outing in Vizag.
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Bumrah to play 3rd Test?
However, there were reports that selectors and the Indian team management are thinking of resting Jasprit Bumrah for the third Test against England so that he remains well-rested for the final two Tests. But Bumrah might be seen playing the Rajkot Test as Team India would want to carry their winning momentum to the third Test.
“There are chances that Jasprit might feature in the third Test vs England as India want to keep winning momentum ahead with Bumrah being the key bowler,” the source added.
Notably, Bumrah took nine wickets while conceding 91 runs in both the innings to help India bulldoze England by 106 runs in the second Test versus England in Visakhapatnam. Bumrah took six wickets in the first Test in Hyderabad, which India lost by 28 runs, which brings his total wicket tally to 15 in a span of two matches.
Million dollar question on Kohli's availability yet to be answered
All eyes will be on Virat Kohli, whether he will return for the third Test against England or not. However, Sports Tak understands that a talk has been done between Kohli and management but the suspense still persists.
Notably, Kohli pulled out of the first two Tests against England, citing personal reason. However, recently it was learnt that BCCI will seek Kohli's availability for the third Test as they haven't heart anything from the former India skipper as yet. As per the BCCI's statement, Kohli communicated with India captain Rohit Sharma and the team management, expressing that although playing for his country is his utmost priority, he currently needs to focus his complete attention on personal matters.
Dravid too stays mum on Kohli's return
After the conclusion of the second Test between Indian and England, head coach Rahul Dravid was also asked to comment on Kohli's return to India's Test fold ahead of third Test against England.
"I think it's best to ask the selectors. I am sure they are the best people to answer ahead of the team selection for the next three Tests. We will get to that. I am sure there will be selection over the next few days. We will connect with him and find out," Dravid said.
De Villiers' revelation on Kohli's absence took social media by storm
Couple of days before, Kohli's former RCB teammate AB De Villiers, during a Q&A session on his YouTube channel revealed that Kohli is presently with Anushka as they are anticipating the arrival of their second child.
"Yes, his second child is on the way. Yes, it's family time and things are important to him. If you are not true and genuine to yourself, you lose track of what you are here for. I think most people's priority is family. You can't judge Virat for that. Yes, we miss him. But he has made absolutely the right decision," De Villiers said. The significant revelation quickly raised inquiries about whether Kohli would choose to participate in the upcoming three Tests against England.
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