If Virat Kohli doesn’t play next ODI, it would be more than niggle: Pragyan Ojha

Former Indian left-arm orthodox spinner Pragyan Ojha stated that if Virat Kohli does not play the second ODI, it is more than just a case of niggle. Ojha feels it would be interesting to see who goes out if Kohli comes in for the remaining games if he is fit. India won the first ODI on July 12, Tuesday, at The Oval and the second game will be played on Thursday at Lord’s.

Ojha reckons that if Kohli is fit, he should play. He feels that it was more of a precaution to rest Kohli in the first game than an injury so that the niggle is not aggravated. He added that if Kohli does not play the next game, the groin injury might be deeper than it was reported.

“(If fit), Virat should play. I had heard that he would not be available for the first ODI, but will be available for the second and third game,” Ojha told Cricbuzz. I feel it was more a case of a precaution than injury, so the niggle doesn’t get worse. However, if Kohli doesn’t play the next game, it would be more than a niggle.”

Virat Kohli should replace Shreyas Iyer: RP Singh

“The groin injury might be a bit deeper than what has been reported. It would be interesting to see who goes out if Kohli comes in, just in case he is fit. According to me, the choice would be between Shreyas Iyer and Suryakumar Yadav,” added Ojha.

Former Indian fast bowler RP Singh shared his view on the subject. He said that Kohli should come in for Shreyas Iyer, as he believes that Yadav’s form should not be disturbed. Yadav comes into the series on the back of a hundred in the T20I series. “Kohli should replace Shreyas Iyer. Suryakumar is playing really well. His form should not be disturbed. In-form players should be in the team,” said RP Singh.

India put up a dominant performance in the first ODI, bowling out England for 110, and chasing down the target with ten wickets in hand.