Personal Reasons Force Kohli To Pull Out Of Remaining India Vs England Tests Series

Ending all speculations, Virat Kohli has reportedly informed BCCI officials, the selection committee, and the Indian team management about his withdrawal from the remaining three Tests against England due to personal reasons. Kohli had already missed the first two Tests in Hyderabad and Visakhapatnam for the same reason. Earlier reports suggested that Kohli, expected to be absent from the third and fourth Tests, had yet to communicate with BCCI officials. However, on Friday, he informed the selectors of his unavailability, as reported by The Indian Express.

Kohli had participated in India's initial training session before the series opener in Hyderabad. However, on the same day, he informed captain Rohit Sharma, head coach Rahul Dravid, and the selectors about his decision to opt out of the first two Tests. The following day, BCCI issued a lengthy press release requesting privacy for the former India captain. BCCI secretary Jay Shah emphasized that the board, selectors, and team management respect Kohli's decision and are prepared to provide full support.

This marks the first instance since his debut that Kohli will miss all Tests in a home series. Undoubtedly, this absence is a significant setback for the Indian batting unit, which has struggled to score big runs and has largely relied on individual brilliance in this series so far.

Kohli's withdrawal was largely expected, especially given that the 35-year-old had yet to return to the country.