Former Indian chief selector Dilip Vengsarkar spoke about Virat Kohli’s absence in the two Tests against England. He admitted it would be a slight disadvantage for the team, but it would be an opportunity for someone else to step up for the team.
India suffered a huge blow ahead of the Test series against England. Kingpin of the Indian batting line-up, Virat Kohli, has withdrawn from the two Test series due to personal reasons. This will be a blow as he has been the backbone of the team in the longest format of the game.
Virat Kohli’s absence will undoubtedly leave a huge void in the team. The experience he brings will be a big failure for India. The batsman has a great record against England and will surely benefit the visitors as the hosts play without his power.
In place of Virat Kohli, India has named Rajat Patidar as his replacement. But with KL Rahul in the team, Patidar is unlikely to get a chance. The wicketkeeper-batsman is expected to play at number 4 and will have huge shoes to fill.
Dilip Vengsarkar admitted that Virat Kohli’s absence will be a slight disadvantage. He pointed out the batsman’s potential and highlighted that the batsman was also in good form and could cost the team a little. Speaking to RevSportz, he explained:
“There will definitely be a slight disadvantage, there is no doubt about that. He is one of the best batsmen in the world and he is also in great form.”
Virat Kohli last played for India in the Tests against South Africa. He seemed to have great touch and played vital knocks for the team, leading to him entering the top 10 rankings in Test cricket. He got his touch back in the longer format and scored runs in bunches.
I hope whoever comes in grabs the opportunity: Dilip Vengsarkar on Virat Kohli’s absence
Dilip Vengsarkar feels Virat Kohli’s absence may be a blessing in disguise for someone else. He pointed out the positive side, hoping whoever plays in the senior batsman’s place grabs the opportunity with both hands. He added:
“I always see it from the other side, since Virat is not there, someone else will get the opportunity to show their talent. I hope the guy who comes in grabs the opportunity with both hands.”
India head coach Rahul Dravid confirmed that KL Rahul will not keep wickets in the series, which means he will play as a proper batsman. However, once Virat Kohli returns, Rahul or Shreyas Iyer will have to make way for the senior batsman.
Therefore, the two matches will be extremely crucial for KL Rahul if he gets the chance. He has done well in the middle order and recently hit a Test ton in South Africa while batting at 5. It remains to be seen whether he takes the No. 4 spot in the series or not.