Virat Kohli withdraws from India-England series, change in pace department

Virat Kohli has withdrawn from the remaining three Tests of the ongoing series against England, according to a report by The Indian Express.

NEW DELHI: Former India captain Virat Kohli has decided to withdraw from the remaining three Tests of the ongoing series against England.

The BCCI and the senior national selection committee were informed of Virat Kohli decision just before the squad selection meeting for the upcoming Tests in Rajkot, Ranchi, and Dharamshala. The BCCI respects Kohli’s decision and offers full support during this time.

Earlier, Virat Kohli had withdrawn from the first two Tests, citing personal reasons. At that time, in a statement released by BCCI secretary Jay Shah .The board conveyed its respect for Virat Kohli’s decision and offered full support to him during this time . Kohli had communicated with Indian captain Rohit Sharma, the team management, and selectors about the necessity of prioritizing personal commitments alongside representing the country.

This marks the first time in Virat Kohli illustrious career that he will miss a home series, reflecting the significance of the personal situation requiring his attention.

However, India will move forward with confidence, especially after leveling the series 1-1 with a victory in the second Test at Vizag.
Meanwhile, middle-order batsman Shreyas Iyer will also be absent from the remaining Tests due to injury concerns. The National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru will oversee his rehabilitation process after Iyer complained of stiffness in the back and groin pain while playing forward defence.
On a positive note. KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja, who were absent during the second Test, have been declared fit and are poised to rejoin the Indian side for the upcoming matches against England. Their inclusion adds balance to the team, with Jadeja’s all-round skills and Rahul’s batting prowess.

Akash Deep gets a Test call

The senior selection committee has decided to pick Akash Deep for remaining three Test matches. As a consequence, the selection committee and Indian captain Rohit dropped Avesh Khan. The selection committee felt that Avesh was better off playing the Ranji Trophy instead of warming the bench with the Test side. At the same time Akash will get a chance to groom. A few days ago, Akash impressed the selection committee and Indian captain Rohit with his bowling performance against England Lions during an unofficial day’s game in Ahmedabad.

Thanks with reference to: https://indianexpress.com/article/sports/cricket/breaking-virat-kohli-withdraws-from-india-england-series-change-in-pace-department-9154112/ and https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/england-in-india/virat-kohli-withdraws-from-remaining-three-tests-against-england-report/articleshow/107574090.cms