The Indian cricket team is poised to kick off a five-match Test series against England on January 25, starting with a game in Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi Stadium on Thursday. A significant development preceding this crucial match is Virat Kohli’s decision to opt out of the initial two Test matches, a confirmation made by the BCCI.

Details surrounding Kohli’s withdrawal for personal reasons have not been disclosed in the BCCI’s recent announcement. The squad for the initial two Test matches had been unveiled earlier, leaving the question of who will replace Kohli. Furthermore, whether Kohli will return for the third Test remains to be seen.

🚨 NEWS 🚨

Virat Kohli withdraws from first two Tests against England citing personal reasons.

Details 🔽 #TeamIndia | #INDvENGhttps://t.co/q1YfOczwWJ

— BCCI (@BCCI) January 22, 2024

BCCI Voices Support

The BCCI statement read: “Mr. Virat Kohli has requested the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to be withdrawn from the first two Tests of the upcoming IDFC First Bank Test series against England, citing personal reasons.

“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.”

“The BCCI respects his decision and the Board and team management has extended its support to the star batter and is confident in the abilities of the remaining squad members to step up and deliver commendable performances in the Test series.”

“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.”

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