Virat Kohli has pulled out of the first two matches of the upcoming ICC World Test Championship series against England. The BCCI made the big announcement via a press release earlier today. The board mentioned that they will decide who will replace Virat Kohli soon. Here’s what the BCCI’s statement read:
“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. The Men’s Selection Committee will name a replacement soon.”
Since this is a home series, the Indian team management can take the risk of trying a new player or even recalling a veteran. Here are the top two contenders who can take Kohli’s spot.
1. Rajat Patidar can be the one who will replace Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli’s Royal Challengers Bangalore teammate Rajat Patidar can be a great choice for the vacant spot. In the recent unofficial Test against England in Ahmedabad, Patidar played a brilliant knock of 111, followed by 151 in the next match.
Since Patidar is in good form right now, he can take Kohli’s spot and bat at number four for India in the upcoming Test matches. However, if Patidar scores big at number four, it will give a big headache to selectors when Kohli comes back.
2. Sarfaraz Khan
Sarfaraz Khan scored heaps of runs in domestic cricket in the last few seasons. Many fans have been asking the selectors to include him in the squad. Perhaps, this is the time for Sarfaraz now. BCCI can give him two chances to showcase his talent in Test cricket.
