Virat Kohli is poised to miss the Tests in Rajkot and Ranchi against England.

Virat Kohli is poised to miss the Tests in Rajkot and Ranchi against England.

Both KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja, who were absent during the second Test in Vizag, are recuperating positively 

Virat Kohli's absence from the England series is likely to be prolonged, as he is expected to miss the third and fourth Tests in Rajkot and Ranchi, respectively. Doubts also linger about his availability for the fifth Test in Dharamsala, starting from March 6. These factors will be taken into consideration by the selectors when they convene this week to finalize the Indian squad for the remaining three Tests.

On January 22, just three days before the start of the England series, the BCCI revealed that Virat Kohli had withdrawn from the first two Tests due to "personal reasons." Kohli had arrived in Hyderabad that same morning to join the Indian squad but departed on the same day. Since issuing that statement, the BCCI has not provided any further updates on Kohli's absence. The statement emphasized Kohli's commitment to representing the country while acknowledging the importance of attending to personal matters that require his full attention.

Rahul and Jadeja are in contention for selection in the upcoming Rajkot Test, pending fitness clearance from the NCA in Bangalore. Although the final report is awaited, the outlook for both players is positive, and India is optimistic about their availability. Mohammed Siraj is confirmed to make a comeback after being rested for workload reasons. His return will bolster the bowling lineup, complementing Jasprit Bumrah's form. Despite Bumrah's workload management being a consideration, he is likely to feature in the Rajkot Test. After leveling the series in Vizag, India will aim to maintain momentum in the next two Tests before the final match in Dharamsala.