The cricket community is feeling the absence of Virat Kohli in the ongoing Test series between India and England. Former India spinner and two-time World Cup winner, Harbhajan Singh joined the bandwagon of cricket savants voicing their thoughts on Kohli's prolonged absence from the sport owing to personal reasons. The absence of the cricketing stalwart Kohli has left a noticeable void in the five-match Test series, with fans and players alike missing the intensity the India superstar brings to the game.
Despite being named in the squad for the initial two Tests, Kohli withdrew due to personal reasons, and to the disappointment of many, he was not named in the squad for the subsequent matches in Rajkot, Ranchi, and Dharamsala, announced on February 10.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed Kohli's unavailability for selection, sparking concern and well-wishes for the cricketer's personal circumstances, especially from figures like Harbhajan Singh. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Harbhajan expressed his hopes for the well-being of Kohli's family during this time.
"Virat Kohli is still unavailable for selection. Reasons no one knows, I hope Virat, his family, and everyone is ok. I hope he returns soon because the Test match seems incomplete without him. He is a brand in Test cricket, which has taken Test cricket forward. Virat Kohli will not be seen in the next three matches, but we hope everything goes well and he returns soon," said Harbhajan.
First instance of Virat Kohli missing an entire Test series
This series marks the first occasion in Virat Kohli's illustrious career that he will miss an entire Test series. Since his Test debut on June 20, 2011, against the West Indies in Kingston, Kohli has become a cornerstone of Indian cricket. Over his career, he has played 113 Test matches, amassing 8848 runs with a commendable batting average of 49.15. This includes 29 centuries and 30 half-centuries, showcasing his significant contribution to the sport.
The ongoing series between India and England will see its third Test match at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Rajkot, commencing on Thursday, February 15. Kohli's absence is undoubtedly felt by fans and teammates alike, as they navigate the series without one of cricket's most dynamic figures.
MORE ON SPORTS TAK:
BCCI issues statement on Virat Kohli's unavailability from entire five-Test series against England
India's squad for remainder of Test series against England announced: No Virat Kohli, 3 star players return and one change in pace attack
