Ace India batter Virat Kohli has withdrawn from the first two Tests of the five-match series against England, BCCI confirmed on January 22, 2024. The series is set to begin on January 25 with the first match to be played in Hyderabad.

As per the BCCI statement, Virat Kohli requested the board to be withdrawn from the first two Tests of the upcoming Test series against England, citing personal reasons.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 BCCI 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,” BCCI statement read.

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The BCCI also stated that media and fans are requested to respect Virat Kohli and his family’s privacy during this time and refrain from speculating on the nature of his personal reasons.

A replacement for Virat Kohli will be named soon by BCCI.

(BCCI inputs)