Virat Kohli, India’s batting mainstay and former captain, has pulled out of the remaining three Tests against England due to personal reasons. This adds an unexpected twist to the closely contested series currently tied at 1-1.
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Kohli, who had already missed the first two Tests, will not be present for the crucial matches in Rajkot, Ranchi, and Dharamsala. While the BCCI respects his decision, the news leaves a gaping hole in India’s middle order.
This isn’t the first time Kohli has prioritized personal matters over cricket. Last year, he missed a Test against South Africa due to a similar situation. With no official details shared, speculation about the reasons behind his absence will undoubtedly swirl.
This development throws the spotlight on other Indian batsmen. Shreyas Iyer, who played the first two Tests, hasn’t been retained, while KL Rahul remains doubtful due to fitness concerns. Uncapped Akash Deep gets a call-up, but replacing Kohli’s experience and influence will be a tall order.
The onus now falls on Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, and other senior players to step up and guide India in Kohli’s absence. Can they capitalize on the momentum gained in the second Test win and clinch the series against a formidable England side? The coming weeks will unfold the answers, but one thing’s certain: Kohli’s absence has injected a dose of uncertainty into the much-anticipated Test series.
