Shubman Gill confirms Virat Kohli's return for 2nd ODI
What's the story
India's vice-captain Shubman Gill has confirmed that Virat Kohli will be fit to feature in the second ODI against England in Cuttack. The announcement came after Kohli was ruled out of the first ODI in Nagpur due to a right knee injury. Despite his absence, India clinched a four-wicket victory and have taken a 1-0 lead in the series on the back of some stellar teamwork.
Injury details
Kohli's knee injury and team adjustments
Kohli's knee injury came to light after a late fitness test, which he failed. Yashasvi Jaiswal was called up to the XI in his absence while Gill assumed Kohli's No.3 position. "When he woke up in the morning, he had some swelling in his knee. He was fine till yesterday's practice session," Gill explained while speaking to the broadcaster post-match about Kohli's condition.
Return confirmation
Gill assures fans of Kohli's fitness for next match
Gill assured fans that there's no cause for concern regarding Kohli's injury. "There's nothing to worry. He will definitely be fit for the next game," he stated. This news brings relief to many, as the previous instance of Kohli missing a match due to injury was back in 2022 during a Test against South Africa in Johannesburg, where he was sidelined with a back spasm.
Strategy shift
Gill's performance and approach in Kohli's absence
In Kohli's absence, Gill stepped up at number three and delivered an impressive 87-run knock from 95 balls. "I think I play at number three in Test matches, so it wasn't a huge adjustment," he said. Further explaining his strategy, he said, "If you are batting at number three and early wickets fall, you have to play according to the situation."
Upcoming milestone
Kohli's potential milestone in upcoming ODI
As India prepare for the second ODI against England on Sunday, February 9, fans are eagerly anticipating Kohli's return. Despite recent struggles in Tests against New Zealand and Australia, along with a disappointing Ranji Trophy comeback, Kohli stands just 94 runs shy of becoming the third player to reach 14,000 ODI runs. If he does, he will join Sachin Tendulkar and Kumar Sangakkara.
Recap
India beat England in first home ODI since 2023 WC
India claimed a four-wicket win over England in the 1st ODI at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium, Nagpur. Substantial knocks from Gill, Shreyas Iyer, and Axar Patel helped the Men in Blue chase down 249. Earlier, debutant Harshit Rana and Ravindra Jadeja disarrayed England (three wickets each). Meanwhile, Jadeja set several records with his three-fer in Nagpur. He is now the leading wicket-taker in India-England ODIs. Notably, India featured in their first home ODI since the ODI World Cup final.