When the BCCI announced India’s squad for the remaining three Tests of the five-match series against England last Saturday (February 10), Virat Kohli’s name didn’t feature in it, much to the disappointment of the fans.
Notably, the star batter didn’t participate in the first two Tests due to ‘personal reasons’ and he remained unavailable for selection for the rest of the series as well.
“Virat Kohli will remain unavailable for selection for the remainder of the series due to personal reasons. The Board fully respects and supports Mr. Kohli’s decision,” the BCCI’s statement read.
Reacting to Kohli’s absence, former England pacer Stuart Broad said it’s a shame that such a quality will be missing the entire series.
"It's a shame for the series that he will be missing but India have won the last Test. Kohli is such a quality player, his passion, his fire, but obviously personal matters always take precedence. But it gives a great opportunity to young players also. So someone in the Indian batting line-up will stand up at some stage," Broad said while speaking to IANS.
After the first two Tests, the India versus England series is evenly poised at 1-1. While the Three Lions won the series opener in Hyderabad by 28 runs, the hosts bounced back to win the second Test in Vizag by 106 runs.
Reflecting on the series, Broad said England’s performance in India shows that the aggressive 'Bazball' approach can work in every country.
"I love it. The series is one-all (1-1) at the moment, but I think 'Bazball' has proven that it can work in every country. I think Hyderabad's performance is the most impressive performance of the England team,” Broad stated.
"We won in Pakistan 3-0, we played well in New Zealand. So 'Bazball' is a mentality that is driving the game forward. That's very entertaining for the crowd too," he added.
"Well, I think, it was a wonderful spectacle watching the Test in Hyderabad and watching West Indies beat Australia at Gabba; that was just spectacular Test match cricket," he further remarked.
Stuart Broad called time on his cricketing career after the Ashes series against Australia last year and he has no interest in taking part in leagues like SA20.
"The way my mind works, I finished (retired) playing Ashes cricket, lucky enough to hit my last ball for a six and take a wicket on my last ball. I don't think you'll see me bowling again," he concluded.
(With IANS inputs)
