Kohli to miss entire series, Iyer not considered, Akash gets call-up
New Delhi, February 10
Star batter Virat Kohli has pulled out of the remainder of the Test series against England for personal reasons, the Indian cricket board (BCCI) confirmed today, ending speculation around the premier player’s availability for the high-profile contest.
Kohli had missed the first two Tests, and that he could be unavailable for the remaining three matches was earlier reported.
“Virat Kohli will remain unavailable for selection for the remainder of the series due to personal reasons. The board fully respects and supports his decision,” BCCI stated. Kohli is currently abroad for a “pressing personal family matter”.
The third match is scheduled to start on February 15 in Rajkot.
Rahul fully fit
The national selection committee included senior players Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul in the squad but their finding a place in the XI would depend on them getting a go-ahead from the BCCI medical team. Jadeja had injured his hamstring during the opening Test while Rahul had a right quadriceps niggle. Jadeja (87) and Rahul (86) were India’s two top-scorers in Hyderabad.
“Rahul is already fit and ready to come back in the playing XI. He had a bit of tightness in his quadriceps and the medical team didn’t want it to get aggravated. In case of Jadeja, it is a strain and he is getting better. There are still five days to go before the game and if he shapes up well, nothing like it,” a BCCI source said.
If both Rahul and Jadeja return to the team, then Rajat Patidar, who made his debut in Vizag, will have to make way as Shreyas Iyer has already been dropped.
Iyer axed?
Iyer, who complained of groin and lower back stiffness, has not been picked. However, his medical update has not been provided by BCCI. It is believed that Iyer would have been dropped in any case and his injury made the decision easier for the selectors.
“If Shreyas was to be rested because of injury, the BCCI medical bulletin would have had an update. Since there are no updates, it can be concluded that he has got the axe,” the source said.
The only new face in the 17-man squad is Bengal speedster Akash Deep, who has been rewarded for his consistent show in First-Class cricket and in the recent series between India and England Lions.
