The first match of the three-match ODI series between India and England is being played at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Nagpur. Notably, Virat Kohli is not part of Team India’s playing 11 for this match, which has increased tension among fans and the team, especially with the Champions Trophy upcoming. The Indian team is returning to this format after a long time, and fans were eagerly waiting for Kohli’s return. Team India captain Rohit Sharma revealed the reason behind Virat’s absence during the toss.
Reason for Kohli’s Absence
England team captain Jose Butler opted to bat first after winning the toss and announced his playing 11 a day before the match. Yashasvi Jaiswal and Harshit Rana have been given a chance to debut in Team India’s playing 11. Captain Rohit Sharma explained that Kohli is not playing due to a knee problem he experienced the previous night, and the team does not want to take any risks with his health, which is why he was not included in the playing 11.
Implications for the Champions Trophy
The Indian team’s participation in the Champions Trophy after this ODI series has heightened the concern over Kohli’s knee injury. Everyone will be watching to see if Kohli recovers in time to play in the remaining two matches of the series. In the first ODI match, Mohammad Shami has returned to the team after a long absence, and Hardik Pandya is also playing. The team’s performance and Kohli’s recovery will be closely monitored in the lead-up to the Champions Trophy.