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Virat Kohli Ruled Out Of First 2 England Tests; Here Are 3 Potential Replacements

image-lrorizk9Virat Kohli will miss first two Tests vs England [X.com]

In a massive setback to India, veteran Indian batter Virat Kohli has withdrawn himself from the first two Tests of the upcoming five-match series against England. As per BCCI's official statement, the talisman has cited personal reasons for opting out of the aforementioned matches. 

Meanwhile, as Kohli has withdrawn from the first two Tests, let's see who could replace him in India's squad. 


Cheteshwar Pujara

image-lrorm3zvPujara has had a fabulous Ranji Trophy [X.com]

The veteran batter played a pivotal role in India's Test side for as long as a decade, helping them clinch many memorable wins through his grit and determination. However, after several failures with the bat, Pujara was ignored by the selectors, eventually being dropped after the second WTC final. 

However, Pujara has had a stunning campaign in the ongoing Ranji Trophy season, amassing the most runs in the tournament. In three matches, the veteran right-hander has garnered 444 runs at an unbelievable average of 111, which is why he could receive a recall to the Test squad. 


Sarfaraz Khan

image-lrorlcheSarfaraz Khan [X.com]

The dashing batter from Mumbai has been a consistent performer in the domestic circuit, amassing a truckload of runs for his state side. Also, he grabbed a million eyeballs through his stellar outing against the England Lions, where he struck 96 runs off 110 balls with the help of eleven fours and one six. So, considering India don't have Kohli, they might call Sarfaraz as his like for like replacement. 


Rajat Patidar

image-lrornbwyRajat Patidar was impressive vs ENG Lions [X.com]

The dynamic batter, who plays for Madhya Pradesh in the domestic circuit, is hailed for his flamboyant stroke play. Patidar has been a prolific performer for his state side, amassing 4000 runs, including twelve centuries and twenty-two half-centuries, at an impressive average of 45.97. 

In the recently-held red-ball game against England Lions, Patidar hammered a belligerent 141-ball 111, studded with eighteen fours and a six. He has been in the reckoning for quite a while now and we shouldn't be surprised if he joins the Indian team as Kohli's replacement.