3 Players who can replace Virat Kohli in first two tests vs England

Team India will host England for a five-match test series. The first game will kick off on January 25 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad. The Indian selection committee announced a 16-member squad for the first two tests. However, on Monday, Virat Kohli requested to withdraw from the first two matches.

The BCCI has accepted his request, and he will be unavailable for the first two games due to personal reasons. That has certainly left the Indian team clueless because Virat is the most experienced Indian batter in the squad and has done well. The BCCI hasn’t announced his replacement until now. Here we will talk about three players who can replace Virat Kohli for the first two tests.

Three Players who can replace Virat Kohli for first two tests vs England

3. Sarfaraz Khan

Sarfaraz Khan has been knocking on the doors of the Indian cricket team for some years now. He has been the most consistent batter on the domestic circuit in India. Sarfaraz is currently part of the India A team and playing against the England Lions. He has scored 155 runs in three innings at 51.67 and is in good form. He is also a good player against the spin that can help India.

2. Cheteshwar Pujara

If India want an in-form player who has already played for the country, then Cheteshwar Pujara is the best choice. The veteran Indian player was part of the last series at home against England. He is also the second-highest run scorer in the Ranji Trophy (2023–24). Pujara has scored 444 runs in just five innings at an average of 111 with a best of 243. So Pujara can be another one who can replace Virat Kohli for the first two games.

1. Rajat Patidar

One name that has certainly impressed everyone is Rajat Patidar. Virat Kohli’s RCB teammate has been in pretty good form at the moment. He is the highest run scorer in the ongoing England Lions tour of India. Patidar has scored 266 runs in three innings at an average of 88.67. India have given chances to a number of youngsters, and it will not be a surprise if we see Patidar making his test debut in Hyderabad.