Virat Kohli withdraws from first Two Tests against England, know the Reason

Add as a preferred source on Google

Virat Kohli has withdrawn his name from the first Two Tests against England, BCCI has confirmed in a statement on Monday (January 22).

Kohli has sought exemption from participating in the initial two matches of the Test series against England. Kohli was part of the five-match Test series squad and was expected to play a pivotal role in the series.

The first Test starts in Hyderabad from January 25 and it will be the last Test assignment for India till the T20 World Cup in June. India occupy a decent position in the WTC 2023-25 cycle table. They are currently placed 2nd in the table with a PCT of 54.16, after the top-placed Australia (PCT of 61.11).

Virat Kohli withdraws himself citing Personal Reasons

The BCCI confirms Kohli requested BCCI to not consider him for the first two matches citing personal reasons.

"Virat has spoken to Captain Rohit Sharma, the team management and the selectors and has emphasized that while representing the country has always been his top priority, certain personal situations demand his presence and undivided attention," the statement from BCCI added.

Kohli also engaged in discussions with the Indian captain Rohit Sharma, along with team management and selectors. Thus, he has expressed his need to step away temporarily to tend to these important personal circumstances.

BCCI Shows Support for Kohli

The BCCI has accorded full respect to Kohli's decision in a commendable manner. The apex body of Indian cricket along with the Indian team's management has extended unwavering support to the ace cricketer during this period.

Recognizing the sensitivity of the situation, the BCCI has made a respectful plea to both the media and the cricketing fraternity. The request is to honour Virat Kohli's privacy by refraining from making speculation on the nature of his immediate personal emergency.

Virat Kohli was excellent for India in their most recent Test series against South Africa. Kohli amassed 172 runs in two Tests and was the highest scorer for India in the Test series.