Virat Kohli, the iconic Indian cricketer, had to abruptly leave the ongoing preparations for the upcoming Test series against South Africa due to a family emergency. While Kohli had obtained permission from team management and the BCCI, he flew back to Mumbai around three days ago, skipping the ongoing three-day practice game in Pretoria. However, he is expected to return to South Africa by Friday, ensuring his presence for the first Test starting on December 26 in Centurion.
Simultaneously, opener Ruturaj Gaikwad suffered a finger injury during India's second ODI against South Africa in Gqeberha, sidelining him from the series decider in Paarl. Unfortunately, his recovery has not progressed sufficiently, and he remains under the observation of the BCCI Medical Team. Gaikwad is unlikely to regain fitness in time for the Test series and is slated to return to India on Saturday.
Given Gaikwad's inability to recover ahead of the Tests, the team management, in consultation with the BCCI, has opted to release him immediately. Consequently, the Indian squads across all three formats will convene in Johannesburg following the conclusion of the ODI series and the ongoing practice game. From there, they will travel to Centurion for the commencement of the Test series against South Africa.
India is scheduled to play two Tests against South Africa, slated for December 26-30 in Centurion and January 3-7, 2024, in Cape Town. This series marks India's second engagement in the 2023-2025 World Test Championship cycle, following their 1-0 victory in the two-Test series against West Indies in July.
Recalling India's last Test series in South Africa during December 2021-January 2022, the visitors won the opening Test in Centurion. However, South Africa staged a comeback, clinching victories in Johannesburg and Cape Town to claim the series 2-1. This defeat increased India's quest for their first-ever Test series win in South Africa, setting the stage for an intriguing contest in the upcoming series.
(With Agency Inputs)
