IND vs ENG: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) selectors have decided to have a discussion with veteran Indian batter Virat Kohli over the issue of his return to the test side ahead of the IND vs ENG 3rd Test. Kohli, who is unavailable for the first two tests against England, is expected to make a return in the 3rd test,
Virat Kohli stated “personal reasons” and pulled out of the opening two test matches against England in Hyderabad and Vishakhapatnam. He informed the BCCI and the Indian captain Rohit Sharma that “while representing the country has always been his top priority, certain personal situations demand his presence and undivided attention.”
The BCCI, in a statement release confirming Virat’s decision, asked the fans not to intrude on Virat Kohli’s personal space and refrain from speculating anything.
While there were many rumours in the market speculating why Virat Kohli isn’t available for selection, AB de Villers, who is a close friend, made a big revelation which marked an end to all the possibilities of speculations.
Former South African cricketer, AB de Villiers, during his Q&A session on his Youtube channel during the 2nd India vs England test, revealed that Virat Kohli is expected his second child and therefore he wants to spend some time with his family.
Virat Kohli expecting his second child: AB de Villiers
“Yes, his second child is on the way. It’s family time and things are important to him. If you are not true and genuine to yourself, you lose track of what you are here for. I think most people’s priority is family. You can’t judge Virat for that. Yes, we miss him. But he has made absolutely the right decision,” said De Villiers.
While de Villiers’ remarks made the picture clear for the fans, the remarks also indicated uncertainty over Virat’s position on resumption of the national duty. Earlier, Virat was expected to be available for the test selection for the 3rd IND vs ENG test onwards, but nothing is clear as such.
Seeking clarity over his return, the Indian selectors led by Ajit Agarkar are likely to have a word with Virat Kohli, who is currently out of the country. A report in published in PTI informed that to have a clear picture, the selectors will discuss Kohli’s return.
“Family comes first as BCCI’s press release stated and Virat will only play if he feels that he is in a position to play,” a BCCI source in Know of Things told PTI on conditions of anonymity.
Meanwhile, the IND vs ENG 3rd Test is set to begin on February 15 in Rajkot. The two teams will have an 8-day break before the third test. Currently, the 2nd IND vs ENG test is underway in Vishakhapatnam. As the third innings get underway on Day 3, Team India leads with 239 runs.