Virat Kohli Injury Update: Will India star play in 2nd ODI in Cuttack?

Add as a preferred source on Google

Virat Kohli, India's veteran batsman, sustained a right knee injury that sidelined him from the first One Day International (ODI) against England on February 6.

He was observed with his right knee strapped during light warm-up exercises before the match.

Kohli's unprecedented injury was a big blow, but the replacements did a tremendous job as India secured a victory in the first match in Nagpur. In Kohli's absence, Shreyas Iyer stepped in and delivered a crucial half-century, scoring 59 runs off 36 balls, contributing significantly to India's victory.

Although Iyer was drafted into the side due to Kohli's injury, the batter's good outing with the bat means it will be difficult to dislodge him from the side now.

IND vs ENG: Will Virat Kohli play in the 2nd ODI?

The Indian team has already reached Bhubaneswar ahead of the 2nd ODI, which will be played on Sunday.

As of now, there is no official confirmation regarding Kohli's participation for the second match. His availability will depend on his recovery and match fitness assessments conducted by the team's medical staff. The team management will likely decide closer to the match time, considering the importance of his role in the lineup and the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

Amid this, Shubman Gill assured that Kohli's knee swelling was nothing to be concerned about and the stalwart is set to feature in Cuttack.

"It's nothing serious. He (Kohli) was fine during yesterday's (Wednesday) practice, but he woke up with some swelling in his knee this morning (Thursday). He'll definitely be back for the second ODI," Gill was quoted as saying to broadcasters after the first match.

Fans and cricket enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting updates on Kohli's condition, hoping for his swift return to bolster India's batting strength in the ongoing series and the forthcoming tournament.