‘Big blow for us’ – Fans react as Virat Kohli pulls out of first two Tests vs England citing personal reasons

India’s star cricketer Virat Kohli pulls out of the first two Test matches of the upcoming five matches of the Test series against England, which starts on January 25 in Hyderabad. Notably, this is a big blow for the home side, as the star cricketer is a very prominent player for his side and played a great role in the recently concluded Test series against South Africa, which saved them from losing.

Meanwhile, Indian Cricket Board Secretary, Mr. Jay Shah, confirmed the news through a statement. Shah revealed that the 35-year-old cricketer had a talk with Indian captain Rohit Sharma, coaches, and selectors about pulling out of the first two Test matches due to a personal emergency.

“Virat Kohli has requested the Indian Cricket Board to be withdrawn from the first two Tests citing personal reasons.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,” Jay Shah said in the statement.

Team management has extended its support to Virat Kohli: Report

The statement further reads that the cricketing body has accepted his reason and given him a break from the first two matches of the Test series. However, the Indian Cricket Board has further requested from the media and fans for his privacy and not to speculate anything about his absence. However, fans are speculating that the former India skipper is set to welcome his second baby soon.

“The Indian Cricket Board respects his decision and the Board and team management has extended its support to the star batter and is confident in the abilities of the remaining squad members to step up and deliver commendable performances in the Test series. The board requests the media and fans to respect Virat Kohli’s privacy during this time and refrain from speculating on the nature of his personal reasons. The Men’s Selection Committee will name a replacement soon,” the statement reads further.

Check out how fans have reacted to this news: