Indian cricket team star batter Virat Kohli is set to undergo a fitness test ahead of the upcoming ODI series against England. The availability of Kohli for England ODI series would be decided after after a fitness test which is scheduled on June 26. The star batter is not playing ODI series against Afghanistan due to hamstring injury.
The experienced batter had picked up the injury during the later stages of the Indian Premier League season, despite playing a key role in Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s title-winning campaign. Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma is likely to feature in the England ODI series. The captain, who played in the early matches of the Afghanistan ODI series, is expected to be part of the squad and could also feature in the third ODI against Afghanistan ahead of the England tour.
On the other hand, all-rounder Hardik Pandya is expected to miss the upcoming England tour. Although he was initially considered for selection subject to fitness clearance, indications suggest he will not be included in the final squad.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has not made any official announcement regarding the squad. The BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia recently stated that long-term planning, including preparations for the 2027 World Cup, remains an internal process and is not discussed publicly. He added that regular consultations take place between selectors, coaches, and team management before final decisions are made.
Team India Veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli dominate the chatter whenever there is any talk around the Indian team’s 2027 global campaign but Saikia is categorical that “strategic discussions in the board room” are best left inside.