Virat Kohli's decision to withdraw from the first two Tests against England left everyone shocked. In Virat Kohli's absence India went down to England by 28 runs in the opening Test in Hyderabad as Rohit Sharma's brigade missed their batting maestro, which suffered a monumental collapse in the second essay of the game and failed to chase down the lowly 231-run target. Later, Rajat Patidar was announced Kohli's replacement for the first two Tests against England.
Meanwhile, a top source privy to the development has confirmed Sports Tak that BCCI will seek Virat Kohli's availability in the next three days.
“Since he (Virat) for two match leave we can't ask him his availability before that but yes now we have to pick rest of matches squad will certainly seek his availability. However, it's up to him whether he will play or not”.
The top source also added that India's squad for the third Test will be announced on February 7th evening or latest by February 8th morning. Notably, the third Test between India and England will be played from February 15 in Rajkot.
Meanwhile, reports are doing round that Kohli is not currently in India. However, the BCCI has asked the media to refrain from speculating about the reason for Kohli's absence.
Kohli pulled out of the first two Tests against England citing personal reasons just before the five-match series opener. Earlier, BCCI stated in a release that Kohli had communicated with captain Rohit Sharma and requested that his privacy be respected. Since then, there has been a noticeable silence surrounding Kohli. Meanwhile, there were rumors suggesting his mother, Saroj, was unwell, which were later debunked as 'fake news' by Virat's elder brother, Vikas Kohli. Uncertainty looms over Kohli's participation, and with reports suggesting that all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja may also be absent for the third Test in Rajkot after missing the second Test due to a hamstring injury incurred during the fourth innings of the Hyderabad Test, India could face significant selection challenges moving forward.
Currently India are playing their second Test against England in Visakhapatnam without the services of Kohli. India, who are already, trailing the series 0-1, look to bounce back in the second Test to keep the contest alive. It will be interesting to see how Rajat Patidar, who was handed Test debut against England, make the best of the opportunity given in the second Test.
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