The Test series of five matches between India and England is set to commence at Rajiv Gandhi Stadium in Hyderabad from January 25. Just three days before the first Test match, Team India faced a significant setback when Virat Kohli withdrew from the squad. Now, the pressing question is who will replace Virat Kohli in the Indian team. While the BCCI has not made any official announcement regarding the replacement yet, two contenders are being considered based on the current squad.
Talking about the position, Virat Kohli holds the number 4 spot in the Test team and has consistently played in that position. However, with his absence, the only viable option within the team to fill this role is KL Rahul. Rahul could potentially play at number 4. The absence of Rahul has raised the question of who will be the sixth batsman in the team. There is competition for this position between KS Bharat and Dhruv Jurel.
Also Read: Big Worry For Team India As Virat Kohli Pulls Out Of Tests Against England
Rajasthan Royals’ star player Dhruv Jurel has been selected for the first time in Team India. It remains to be seen when he will make his debut. He has been included in the Test squad for the first two matches. With Virat Kohli’s departure, an opportunity has opened up for him. Dhruv Jurel and KS Bharat are the contenders for a spot in the team. Looking at the recent matches between India A and England Lions, KS Bharat has strengthened his case by scoring a century. However, the final decision will depend on whether Tilak Varma is chosen as a replacement. If not, one of these two players is likely to get a chance in the team.
🚨 NEWS 🚨
Virat Kohli withdraws from first two Tests against England citing personal reasons.
Details 🔽 #TeamIndia | #INDvENGhttps://t.co/q1YfOczwWJ
— BCCI (@BCCI) January 22, 2024
The provided list appears to be a potential playing XI for the Indian cricket team, likely for a Test match. Here’s the interpretation of the lineup:
Rohit Sharma (Captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, KS Bharat/Dhruv Jurel (Wicketkeeper), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah
