Virat Kohli withdraws from first two Tests against England

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced on Monday that legendary India batter Virat Kohli has withdrawn from the first two Test matches against England citing ‘personal reasons’.

The decision was communicated by BCCI secretary Jay Shah in a statement urging fans and media not to engage in speculation about the nature of Kohli’s personal situation. In an official statement, BCCI said that Kohli had conversations with captain Rohit Sharma and the team management with reference to his absence. 

“Mr. Virat Kohli has requested the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to be withdrawn from the first two Tests of the upcoming Test series against England, citing personal reasons,” BCCI said in their official statement.

“Virat has spoken to captain Rohit Sharma, the team management and the selectors and has emphasized that while representing the country has always been in top priority, certain personal situations demand his presence and undivided attention” - the statement further read.

The BCCI respects his decision and the Board and team management has extended its support to the star batter and is confident in the abilities of the remaining squad members to step up and deliver commendable performances in the Test series.

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

The Board is expected to announce a replacement for Virat Kohli in the near future.

Meanwhile, England’s young batting sensation Harry Brook has also flown back home from England’s tour of India for personal reasons. Surrey’s Dan Lawrence has been named as his replacement.

The England cricket team arrived at the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad on Sunday evening ahead of their five-match Test series against India.

The Test-format series between India and England will commence in Hyderabad and will conclude on March 11 in Dharamshala with the fifth and final Test.

Cover Credit - BCCI Official