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Virat Kohli (Source: Twitter)
The Indian cricket off let has been revolving around just one person and that is Virat Kohli, who will be missing the remaining of the Test series citing personal issue. However, now in recent development, according to an anonymous official from the Indian Cricket Board speaking to PTI, there's a possibility of Virat Kohli returning to the team for the fifth Test against England in Dharamshala.
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The legendary India batter who took a break for personal reasons, had initially sought permission to miss the first two Tests. Although there were expectations of his return for the third Test, it didn't materialize. However, there's optimism that Kohli might make a comeback for the crucial final Test. As the leading batter of the team, Kohli's potential return for the final Test would provide a significant boost to the Indian side, especially considering the middle-order challenges faced in the preceding two matches.
KL Rahul will miss the third Test against England in Rajkot starting on February 15 due to ongoing fitness concerns. Rahul’s Karnataka teammate, Devdutt Padikkal will replace him, marking his first Test call-up for India. The star batter’s absence compounds India's challenges, particularly with Virat Kohli already unavailable for the match.
Sarfaraz Khan likely to get Test debut in third Test
Following a resounding victory in the second Test against England, the Indian team is grappling with injury concerns, complicating the selection of the playing XI. After suffering another setback with KL Rahul ruled out from the upcoming third Test in Rajkot. It's speculated that Sarfaraz Khan will make his Test debut in Rahul's absence, given his impressive domestic performances, averaging over 100 annually for three consecutive seasons. If all goes well, Sarfaraz will earn his Test cap.
“Sarfaraz will be making his debut. As KL has been ruled out for this Test, Sarfaraz will be getting his first game,” a source confirmed as reported by Indian Express.