India’s Kohli Unavailable for Next 2 vs England, Rahul & Jadeja Likely to Included: Report

Indian cricket fans hoping for Virat Kohli’s return in the upcoming Test against England are likely to be disappointed. Reports suggest the former skipper, who missed the first two matches due to personal reasons, might be out for the entire series.

While the BCCI has maintained privacy on the matter, Kohli’s close friend AB de Villiers revealed the cricketer is expecting his second child with wife Anushka Sharma. This news aligns with reports indicating Kohli’s absence extends beyond the next two Tests in Rajkot and Ranchi.

A final decision regarding Kohli’s participation in the series finale at Dharamsala remains uncertain. The Indian team management will reportedly discuss his availability soon.

Indian Team Bolstered by Potential Returns for Rajkot Test: Siraj Confirmed, Jadeja & Rahul Under Watch

While captain Virat Kohli’s absence remains a setback, the Indian cricket team receives a welcome boost with the expected return of key players for the third Test against England. Pace spearhead Mohammed Siraj is confirmed to be back after being rested in the second Test, while all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and opening batsman KL Rahul are progressing well in their rehabilitation and could be available for selection in Rajkot.

Siraj’s return adds much-needed firepower to the bowling attack, especially after Jasprit Bumrah’s absence due to workload management. The pacer was on fire in the South Africa series, and his ability to swing the ball will be crucial on Rajkot’s batting-friendly pitch.

Jadeja’s return would be a massive positive for the team’s balance. His all-round skills, including his incisive left-arm spin and handy lower-order batting, were sorely missed in the second Test. Reports suggest he is making good progress in recovering from his hamstring injury, and his inclusion would significantly strengthen the bowling and batting line-up.

Rahul’s presence at the top of the order would provide stability and experience to the Indian batting, which has been inconsistent in the series. His fluent stroke-making and composure would be valuable assets on a pitch known to assist batsmen early on. While his availability hasn’t been confirmed yet, his progress at the NCA is encouraging.

The series stands at 1-1 after India’s thrilling fightback in Visakhapatnam, making the Rajkot Test even more crucial. The return of these key players, even if not confirmed for all, would undoubtedly boost the team’s morale and chances of taking the lead in the series.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the players’ situations

• Mohammed Siraj: Confirmed to return after being rested.
• Ravindra Jadeja: Recovering from a hamstring injury, progress positive, potential inclusion in Rajkot Test.
• KL Rahul: Rehabilitating a quadriceps strain, making good progress, availability for Rajkot Test uncertain.

The upcoming days will be crucial for Jadeja and Rahul’s fitness assessments, and their inclusion will depend on their readiness. Regardless, their progress provides much-needed optimism for the Indian team as they aim to regain control of the series in Rajkot.

 FAQs

1. Why is Virat Kohli unavailable for the next two Tests?

    Ans. Kohli is on paternity leave to be with his wife for the birth of their first child.

2. Who are the potential replacements for Kohli in the Indian cricket team?

    Ans.  KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja are the speculated replacements for Kohli.

3. How have KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja performed recently?

    Ans. KL Rahul has been in exceptional form with consistent performances, while Ravindra Jadeja has been a valuable all-rounder with contributions in batting and bowling.

4. What challenges and opportunities does Kohli’s absence present for the Indian team?

    Ans. Kohli’s absence presents challenges in terms of leadership and consistency in batting. However, it also offers an opportunity for other players to step up and showcase their skills.

5. How might the team composition and strategies change with Rahul and Jadeja’s inclusion?

    Ans. The team composition will see adjustments with KL Rahul potentially taking over the opening slot. The inclusion of Ravindra Jadeja will provide better balance and tactical options for the team.