Virat Kohli continues to be absent from cricketing duties due to undisclosed personal reasons, and it remains uncertain whether he will make a return to the Indian team before the commencement of the third Test against England. As the Indian cricket squad prepares for the second Test in Vizag, there is no official update regarding Virat Kohli’s potential availability for the third Test onward. Kohli opted out of the initial two matches of the series, citing a ‘personal issue.’ While the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) urged fans to avoid engaging in speculations and rumors, certain social media accounts suggested that Virat’s absence is linked to his mother’s health.
Contrary to these rumors, Virat’s brother Vikas took to social media to dismiss the false information surrounding their mother’s health. In an Instagram post, Vikas clarified, “Hello everyone. I have noticed that there is this fake news about our mom’s health been circulating around. Let me clear that our mom is absolutely fit and fine. Also, I would request everyone and also the media, not to spread such news without proper information.”
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The BCCI, in an earlier release, stated, “Virat Kohli has requested the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to be withdrawn from the first two Tests of the upcoming Test series against England, citing personal reasons.” The release continued, “Virat has spoken to Captain Rohit Sharma, the team management and the selectors and has emphasized that while representing the country has always been his top priority, certain personal situations demand his presence and undivided attention.”
Acknowledging and respecting Kohli’s decision, the BCCI and team management expressed their support for the star batter. The statement conveyed confidence in the remaining squad members to step up and deliver commendable performances in the ongoing Test series. Players such as Rajat Patidar and Sarfaraz Khan have been brought in as batting replacements following the absence of Kohli and KL Rahul. While Rahul might make a return to the team for the third Test, there is no update on Virat Kohli’s status at present.