(Image source: X.com)
[Saba Sports News] India batsman Virat Kohli is poised to miss the upcoming third and fourth Tests of the ongoing series against England, as reported by ESPNCricinfo. These matches are slated to take place from February 15 in Rajkot and February 23 in Ranchi respectively.
Initially named in the squad for the first two Tests, Kohli missed the series-opener in Hyderabad and the second Test in Vizag, citing personal reasons. The BCCI is yet to announce the squad for the remaining Test matches.
AB De Villiers, Kohli’s close friend and former Royal Challengers Bangalore teammate, confirmed that the latter and his wife Anushka Sharma are expecting their second child. This family development underscores Kohli’s decision to keep his family as his top priority. De Villiers reassured fans that Kohli is doing well during this time.
In other team developments, reports suggest that India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and middle-order batsman KL Rahul are likely to make a comeback for the third Test.
Jadeja sustained a hamstring niggle during the first Test while running between the wickets.
Meanwhile, Rahul experienced pain in his right quadriceps which sidelined him for the second Test. Rahul’s return is highly anticipated, while Jadeja’s availability remains uncertain as he undergoes rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA).
The series currently stands level at 1-1, with England causing a surprise upset by winning the first Test. However, the hosts mounted a strong in the second gams, clinching victory by a commanding margin of 106 runs, even without the services of Kohli, Rahul, and Jadeja. The absence of Kohli will undoubtedly test India’s depth and resilience as they aim to clinch the series against a determined English side.