Indian cricket team batter Virat Kohli© AFP
There has been a lot of speculations surrounding India’s team selection for the remaining three Test matches against England. The main question mark was over the availability of star batter Virat Kohli who opted out of the first two matches citing ‘personal reasons’. There were rumours that Kohli may miss the next two matches as well and selectors were waiting for his confirmation before selecting the squad. However, a report by Sports Tak claims that the delay in naming the squad is due to the fact that selectors are waiting for the fitness reports for Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul from the National Cricket Academy (NCA).
Both KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja missed the second Test match due to injuries and they are currently undergoing rehabilitation at the NCA. The report further claims that there was some good news for Indian fans as both players can be available for selection later in the series.
When it comes to Kohli, it was reported that he is expected to miss few more games.
Kohli may miss the third and fourth Test matches against England as well, said ESPNcricinfo in a report. The report also stated that Kohli is doubtful for the fifth and final game of the series as well.Â
Earlier, according to a report in the Indian Express, Virat hasn’t communicated to the BCCI the date of his return. But, the selectors would draft him into the squad as soon as he makes himself available.
“Virat will decide when he wants to make a comeback to the Indian side. He hasn’t informed us till now but whenever he decides to play, he will be included in the team,” a BCCI official was quoted.
“While representing the country has always been his top priority, certain personal situations demand his presence and undivided attention. The BCCI respects his decision and the Board and team management has extended its support to the star batter,” the BCCI had said in a statement after Kohli pulled out of the first two Tests against England.