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SA vs IND: Why is Virat Kohli not playing the second Test ?

The second test between India and South Africa is just minutes away from the start. India are nearing a historic series win in South Africa and a win in Johannesburg will seal the deal for them

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Sam Abraham
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Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli (Image Credit Twitter)

The second Test between India and South Africa is just minutes away from the start. India are nearing a historic series win in South Africa and a win in Johannesburg will seal the deal for them. Ahead of the match, the Indian fans were shocked to see KL Rahul walking in for the toss in place of Virat Kohli. After the toss, Rahul revealed that Kohli has an upper back spasm and will miss the game. Rahul was optimistic that Virat will recover before the final Test. Meanwhile, KL Rahul won the toss and opted to bat at Wanderers. Hanuma Vihari has been drafted into the team in place of Virat Kohli. The rest of the team stays the same.

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"Unfortunately Virat has had an upper back spasm, the physios are working on him and hopefully he'll recover for the next Test. It is every Indian player's dream to captain his country. Really honoured and looking forward to this challenge. We have had a few good wins here and hopefully we'll look to continue that. Hanuma Vihari comes in place of Virat," said Rahul at the toss.

For South Africa, Quinton de Kock was missing from the playing XI as the wicketkeeper-batter has taken retirement from Test cricket. Kyle Verreynne replaced him in the team. South Africa made one more change and brought in Duanne Olivier in place of all-rounder Wiaan Mulder.

India have a staggering record at the Wanderers and have not lost a game. They have played five matches, winning two and drawing three. Kohli's loss is a big blow as the skipper has terrific  numbers at the Wanderers. In the four innings that Kohli has played in Johannesburg, he has two fifties and a hundred to his name.

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