Former England captain Nasser Hussain believes Virat Kohli’s absence will be a huge blow for the hosts. It has been reported that Kohli is set to miss the third and fourth Test match after missing the first two games due to personal reasons.
India has an inexperienced batting line-up and Kohli’s absence has been deeply felt. The talisman has an impeccable record while playing in home conditions as he averages around 60.
However, Hussain feels India has got the young batters to fill in the big shoes of Virat Kohli in the upcoming matches. KL Rahul, who is in good form, is expected return to the Test squad.
Nasser Hussain said on Sky Sports, “But Kohli and his family and his private life has to come first, so it’s a blow for India, but as we’ve seen, they’ve got a lot of very good young batters.”
“But KL Rahul, who was injured for the last game, played brilliantly in the last few months for India and in all formats. I think he’ll come back in, so he’ll add to their batting.”
Hussain continued: “It will be a blow for India, blow for the series, blow for World Cricket. It’s gonna be a special series, already has been the first two games have been fascinating, and make no mistake, Virat Kohli is one of the greatest batters to ever play the game and any series, and any side would miss someone of that stature.”
Hussain added that Kohli deserves the much-needed break from the game but acknowledged that the fans will not be able to enjoy a mouth-watering contest between Anderson and India’s number four.
“First things first, the game needs to look after the likes of Virat Kohli as well. He’s been playing international cricket for more than 15 years now, and if he needs a break to be away with family, just some time away from the game, absolutely we wish Virat Kohli all the best.”
He added: “It means we don’t have the mouth-watering possibility of an Anderson and Kohli contest like we’ve seen over the years. So, be it.”
The third Test match between India and England will be played at Rajkot from 15th February onwards.
