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Virat Kohli 9 Feb 2024 Michael Steele Getty Images
ODI CRICKET

Injury setback puts Kohli’s England series in doubt

Virat Kohli has been ruled out of India's Afghanistan ODI series, with chief selector Ajit Agarkar admitting the batting star may not be fit for England next month.

Kohli, 37, who led Royal Challengers Bengaluru to their second straight IPL title on Sunday, will miss the three ODI matches starting on June 13 in Dharamsala.

Yashasvi Jaiswal has been named as Kohli’s replacement.

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Kohli only plays the 50-over format for India after quitting Test and T20 internationals.

He was in prolific form during the recent IPL, scoring 675 runs at an average of 56.25, including an unbeaten 75 in the final against Gujarat Titans.

“It’s just been less than a week since he (Kohli) injured himself in the (IPL) finals,” Agarkar told a media briefing in Mumbai.

“We don’t know the timelines yet but it looks like he might be fit for that England one-day series (next month).”

The availability of Rohit Sharma, another veteran batsman, for the series remains unclear. Rohit was selected in the squad subject to fitness.

Kohli and Rohit were both expected to resume their preparation for the 2027 ODI World Cup as debate continues over their future plans.

– AFP

Photo: Michael Steele/Getty Images

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