The most anticipated Test match of India is going to happen in less than a day. The first Test match of the series is going to take place at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad on January 25. Both teams are well prepared ahead of the first Test match. But before that, Team India had a setback. Virat Kohli has withdrawn his name from the first two Test matches against England. After that, Team management set to announce Rajat Patidar’s name as Virat Kohli’s replacement.
Virat Kohli’s Absence:
In a surprising development, Virat Kohli has withdrawn from participation in the initial two Tests against England, citing personal reasons, as announced by the BCCI on Monday (January 22). The anticipation now lingers as selectors gear up to unveil the replacement for this cricket luminary in the upcoming matches.
On this matter, BCCI released a statement. In the statement, BCCI said, “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.”
Later they added, “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.”
Replacement of Virat Kohli:
Virat Kohli’s absence from the Test squad is a big setback for the team. The number 3 position is now a concern. In a strategic move to fortify the India squad for the initial two Tests against England, the dynamic 30-year-old batter, Rajat Patidar from Madhya Pradesh, has received a coveted call-up. This significant development unfolds following Virat Kohli’s decision to step back from the first two Tests, citing personal reasons. All eyes are now on Patidar as he gears up to make his mark in the challenging series against England.
Brimming with exceptional form, Patidar recently showcased his prowess by notching an impressive 151 against the England Lions in Ahmedabad just last week. This stellar performance follows his remarkable century, scoring 111, in the warm-up fixture against the Lions. Adding to his cricketing credentials, Patidar was part of the touring squad to South Africa with the A side late last year, further solidifying his reputation as a batsman in prime form.
The elevation of Rinku Singh to the India A squad for the second multi-day clash against England Lions acted as the catalyst for Patidar’s promotion to the senior men’s side. This strategic move not only reinforces Singh’s potential but also opens up an exciting opportunity for Patidar to make his mark on the higher stage of international cricket.
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