‘Shri Ram kare sab thik ho’ – Fans Pray as Star India batter Virat Kohli opts out of first Two Test against England due to personal reasons

In a surprising development, Indian cricket stalwart Virat Kohli has withdrawn from the first two Test matches against England. The Test squad is set to face England in a five-match series on January 25. Kohli cited personal reasons to take a break from the major event. This unexpected decision comes as a blow to the team, especially as they gear up for the crucial test series.

The Indian Cricket Board revealed that Kohli personally communicated his decision to the team management, including Captain Rohit Sharma. The opening test is scheduled to commence on January 25 in Hyderabad. While the board respects Kohli’s commitment to representing the country, it acknowledges the significance of certain personal situations demanding his immediate attention.

In a detailed press release, the Board says, “Virat has spoken to Captain Rohit Sharma, the team management, and the selectors and has emphasised that while representing the country has always been his top priority, certain personal situations demand his presence and undivided attention.”

The Board urges fans to avoid speculation

Amid the announcement, Virat Kohli was spotted in Hyderabad on Sunday, coinciding with the team’s commencement of training for the upcoming series. The Board expressed confidence in the remaining squad members’ ability to meet the challenge posed by an upbeat England side in the initial Tests. It also urged fans and media to avoid speculation about Virat Kohli’s absence.

“The Board requests the media and fans to respect Virat Kohli’s privacy during this time and refrain from speculating on the nature of his reasons. The focus should remain on supporting the Indian cricket team as they embark on the upcoming challenges in the Test series,” the detailed board statement added.

Kohli’s absence raises concerns for India, particularly in their home conditions, where the star batter’s contribution is often instrumental. With a commendable track record in Hyderabad, his withdrawal adds an element of unpredictability to the team’s strategy.

Virat Kohli had played a pivotal role in India’s recent drawn Test series in South Africa, showcasing his batting prowess with a total of 172 runs, including fifty, across four innings in two Tests. While his absence will be felt by the team, cricket enthusiasts await further developments and hope for a swift resolution to the unforeseen circumstances affecting the former captain.

Here is how fans react to Virat Kohli’s decision:

https://Twitter.com/JohnyBravo183/status/1749363982937497745?s=20

https://Twitter.com/Srikantht998/status/1749366409363439964?s=20