“Someone else will…” – Dilip Vengsarkar makes huge statement on Virat Kohli’s absence for 2 IND vs ENG Tests

Former Indian chief selector Dilip Vengsarkar opened up about the absence of Virat Kohli from the two Tests against England. He admitted that it would be a slight disadvantage for the team but would be an opportunity for someone else to step up for the team.

India suffered a massive blow in the ahead of the Test series against England. Kingpin of the Indian batting lineup Virat Kohli pulled himself out of the two Tests of the series due to personal reasons. This will come as a major blow as he has been the backbone of the team in the longest format of the game.

Virat Kohli’s absence will leave a massive void in the team no doubt. The experience that he brings will be a huge miss for India. The batter has a great track record against England and surely it will advantage the visitors with hosts playing without their powerhouse.

In place of Virat Kohli, India have named Rajat Patidar as his replacement. But with KL Rahul being in the team, it is unlikely that Patidar will get a chance. It is expected that keeper-batter will play at No.4 and he will have huge shoes to fill in.

Dilip Vengsarkar admitted that Virat Kohli not being there will be a slight disadvantage. He pointed out the potential of the batter and highlighted that the batter was also in good form and it might cost the team a bit. Speaking to RevSportz, he explained:

“There will be a slight disadvantage definitely, there is no question about it. He’s one of the best batsmen in the world, and he’s in great form also.“

Virat Kohli last played for India in the Tests against South Africa. He looked in great touch and played vital knocks for the team, which saw him entering the top 10 rankings in Test cricket. He regained his touch back in the longest format and scored runs in clusters.

I hope the guy who comes in grabs the opportunity – Dilip Vengsarkar on Virat Kohli’s absence

Dilip Vengsarkar feels that Virat Kohli’s absence can be a blessing in disguise for someone else. He pointed out the positive side, hoping that whoever plays in the senior batter’s place grabs the opportunity with both hands. He added:

“I always look at it from the other way, since Virat is not there, someone else will get an opportunity to showcase their talent. I hope the guy who comes in grabs the opportunity with both hands.”

India head coach Rahul Dravid confirmed that KL Rahul won’t be keeping the wickets in the series, which means he will be playing as a proper batter. However, once Virat Kohli returns, either Rahul or Shreyas Iyer will have to make way for the senior batter.

Therefore the two games will be extremely crucial for KL Rahul if gets an opportunity. He has done well in the middle order and recently slammed a Test ton in South Africa while batting at 5. It remains to be seen if he takes the No.4 spot in the series or not.