The series between India and South Africa is set to commence with a Test match in Centurion. Team India is gearing up for the challenge; however, discussions surround the squad due to various reasons just ahead of the series.

Notably, both Mohammed Shami and Ruturaj Gaikwad are ruled out of the series due to injuries, while Ishan Kishan has withdrawn his name citing mental fatigue. These setbacks come as the team is in the midst of preparations for the crucial series.

In an unexpected development, star batsman and former captain Virat Kohli has also left the team abruptly, heading back from South Africa. The reasons behind his sudden departure have now been disclosed.

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli talking about on Test Cricket.

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– The GOAT duo returns in Test Cricket on 26th…!!!! 🐐pic.twitter.com/vH4OGt0ucr

— CricketMAN2 (@ImTanujSingh) December 23, 2023

The absence of these key players poses challenges for Team India as they embark on the series against South Africa, raising questions about the team’s composition and strategies. The cricketing community awaits further updates on the situation and the impact it may have on India’s performance in the upcoming matches.

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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has not issued an official statement regarding Kohli’s abrupt departure. Earlier reports suggested he might rejoin the team in Centurion by December 22 or 23. A recent report contradicts the emergency claim, stating that Kohli’s departure was pre-planned for these 3-4 days. Importantly, during this period, Kohli didn’t return to India but traveled to London instead

Reports suggested that Kohli had to urgently return to India due to a family emergency, resulting in his absence from the intra-squad practice match scheduled for three days. This development has raised questions about Kohli’s availability and participation in the crucial Test series against South Africa.

Virat Kohli returns to home from South Africa due to family emergency. (Cricbuzz) pic.twitter.com/6bYh2Vcb9v

— CricketMAN2 (@ImTanujSingh) December 22, 2023

According to a senior BCCI official cited in the report, Kohli’s departure was pre-planned, and he had informed the team management and the board in advance. The decision not to play in the practice match was also part of the prearranged plan. The reasons behind Kohli’s proximity to the Test match and his subsequent travel can only be explained by him or the BCCI. The impact on his preparedness will only become apparent after the Test series begins on December 26.

Relief is that Kohli has returned and is now back with the Indian squad in Centurion. There is hope that Kohli will participate in training on Sunday and Monday. However, it’s worth noting that Kohli hasn’t been inactive regarding the series. Before departing for London, he actively practiced with the team in South Africa for 3-4 days.

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