India levelled the series 1-1 after they handed England a 106 runs defeat in the 2nd match. The Rohit Sharma-led side were without key players as Virat Kohli pulled his name out of the first two games citing personal reasons. However, his close friend and South Africa great AB de Villiers recently revealed that Virat and his wife Anushka Sharma are expecting their second child. A few reports also mentioned that Virat is abroad.
Further, Mohammed Shami is not a part of this series, and even there is a doubt over Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul’s participation ahead of the third Test. BCCI is yet to announce the squad for the remaining three matches. Thus, it is suspense whether Virat will partake in the upcoming match or not.
The third Test will take place on February 15 at Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Rajkot. Ahead of the upcoming match, England legend Nasser Hussain, remarked that Virat might return for the 3rd Test.
Hussain, as quoted from Sky Sports, stated, “With three Tests remaining, the series is poised perfectly. I anticipate a closely contested series, but England must be prepared for India to bounce back even more vigorously. India has been without several key players thus far.”
“Mohammad Shami is ruled out for the series, Ravi Jadeja might miss another Test match, and Virat Kohli has been absent in the first two matches. These are significant players. Kohli and possibly KL Rahul could return, enhancing India’s strength in the remaining three matches. England needs to recognize that they’ll need to elevate their performance.”
Talking about Virat, even head coach Rahul Dravid was unaware of Kohli’s return and stated, “I think it’s best to ask the selectors. I am sure they are the best people to answer ahead of the team selection for the next three Tests. We will get to that. I am sure there will be a selection over the next few days. We will connect with him and find out,” he said.
Nasser Hussain’s take on 2nd Test
“It was an exceptional Test match, characterized by an outstanding pitch and two formidable teams fiercely competing against each other. England, true to form, demonstrated resilience despite conceding a first-inning lead, as seen in the first Test. However, their remarkable comeback in the recent performance showcased their determination. The pivotal factor was undoubtedly the brilliance of Jasprit Bumrah. Although he claimed 3 wickets today, it was his mesmerizing spell in the first innings, where he took 6 wickets for just over 40 runs, that dismantled England’s batting lineup.”
