Virat Kohli’s absence doesn’t weaken India even if he is one of the greatest players: David Lloyd

Star India batter Virat Kohli has opted out of the ongoing England series citing personal reasons. The 35-year-old joined the national camp in Hyderabad ahead of the first Test but things quickly changed as he decided to head back home. BCCI urged the fans to respect his privacy as there is currently no information about Kohli’s whereabouts.

However, his absence was dearly felt in the first two Test matches of the series. Barring the first innings in Hyderabad, India’s middle order has struggled so far. As things stand, India are set to name an inexperienced middle order for the third Test, which is a concern against a fearless England.

Also read: BCCI announces India's squad for final three Tests against England, Kohli to miss whole series

Despite being in a spot as far as their batting is concerned, former England cricketer David Lloyd is confident of India’s abilities. The 76-year-old stated that India won’t be missing Kohli as the youngsters have risen to the occasion and have delivered for the national team in the recent past. He further lauded Yashasvi Jaiswal, who is currently the leading run-scorer of the series.

“All of India has been digesting the news that Virat Kohli will not play any part in the series but I don't think it weakens them too much even if he is one of the greatest players we've ever seen,” Lloyd wrote for The Daily Mail.

“Shubman Gill stepped up in the second Test and the Indian batters are all well capable of getting massive scores. The one England have had the most problems with so far is Yashasvi Jaiswal and their challenge therefore is to try to work out a plan to dismiss the series' leading run scorer,” he added.

Reports suggest that Sarfaraz Khan is likely to make his debut in the third Test. With Shreyas Iyer being dropped, the number five spot is currently up for grabs and Sarfaraz, who proved himself time and again in domestic cricket, is likely to get the opportunity. On the other hand, Dhurv Jurel might replace KS Bharat in the playing XI.

Also read: Virat Kohli's absence from England Test series ends his 12-year-long streak