India vs England 2024: Top three Indian players to watch for Virat Kohli's replacement

Team India will be without the services of star batter Virat Kohli in the first two Tests of the five-match series against England. Kohli was included in the 16-man squad led by Rohit Sharma but pulled out of the series on Monday (January 22) citing personal reasons. The veteran middle-order batter was with the team in Hyderabad, the venue of the first Test, but left the camp giving a headache for the selectors. 

Advertisment

Kohli has a great record against England, especially at home. Moreover, he was the highest run-getter for India in the two Test matches against South Africa. As the team prepares to face off in a high-profile encounter, the selectors will have a tough time finding the perfect replacement for the ace cricketer. 

In this article, we will look at three players who can replace Virat Kohli in the first two Tests against England.

3. Sarfaraz Khan

Advertisment

Sarfaraz Khan has been knocking on the door of Team India selectors for a long time now with his sensational performances in the domestic circuit. The middle-order batter has been a consistent performer for Mumbai in Ranji Trophy cricket for the past few years. Despite being at his best in India's premier domestic red-ball tournament, Sarfaraz's omission from the Test squad was always surprising. However, Kohli's absence may pave the way for his debut. Notably, the 26-year-old was also impressive for India A in the first two matches against England Lions, scoring 96 and 55. 

2. Cheteshwar Pujara 

Advertisment

India's Test specialist Pujara had to be dropped from the squad last year after his declining performance. The 35-year-old has been consistent and a match-winner for India over the years, but he hasn't been at his best since 2019. However, the middle-order batter has not decided to give up as he scores runs for fun in domestic cricket. Right after the squad announcement for the upcoming home series, Pujara made a statement by scoring a double century for Saurashtra against Jharkhand in the Ranji Trophy. Given his experience, the selectors may call him back into the squad. 

1. Rajat Patidar

Rajat Patidar's impressive performance for India A against England Lions might prompt the selectors to give him a chance in the senior Test team. The right-hander, who has a first-class average of 45.97, has scored 111 and 141 in the last two games. He was solid against both pace and spin bowling. Considering the current form, the management may give him a chance in Kohli's absence.