Virat Kohli withdraws from India’s first two Tests against England for mysterious ‘personal reasons’ in major blow to the hosts

India star Virat Kohli has withdrawn from the first two Test matches against England due to personal reasons, the Board of Control for Cricket in India has announced.

The BCCI confirmed that a replacement will be called into the squad to replace the Indian talisman.

“Virat spoke to captain Rohit Sharma, the team management and the selectors and emphasized that while representing the country has always been his top priority, certain personal situations require his presence and undivided attention,” the BBCI statement said.

‘The BCCI respects his decision and the board and team management have extended their support to the star player and are confident in the abilities of the remaining team members to step up and deliver commendable performances in the Test series.

‘The BCCI requests the media and fans to respect Virat Kohli’s privacy during this period and refrain from speculating on the nature of his personal reasons.

“The focus must continue to be on supporting the Indian cricket team as they meet the challenges ahead in the Test series.”

The Indian icon will be a big miss in the hosts’ batting line-up ahead of the first Test in Hyderabad.

The first Test is scheduled to begin on Friday at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium.

Kohli will also be absent from the second Test, which will be held in Visakhapatnam from February 2 to 6.

The 35-year-old has an excellent record against England, scoring 1,991 runs at an average of 42.36 in 28 Test matches.

This includes five centuries and a double hundred, with his average rising to 56.38 for home Test matches.