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The cricketing world is abuzz with anticipation as Team India prepare to face England in a thrilling five-match Test series. The action is scheduled to kick off on January 25 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad.
However, the excitement comes tinged with disappointment as the star batter and former captain, Virat Kohli, will be absent for the first two Tests due to personal reasons, a confirmation from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) reveals.
Onus on others as Virat Kohli takes a back seat
With Kohli’s absence, the responsibility now falls on other premier batters to step up and fill the void left by the Indian cricketing icon. Offering insights into potential standout performers, former Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has named two players who, according to him, will shine against England in the red-ball series.
A young talent to watch
Gavaskar expressed confidence in the young batter Yashasvi Jaiswal, stating that the left-handed Rajasthan Royals (RR) opener is poised to easily adapt to the home conditions. Gavaskar reckoned that Jaiswal will make a mark on the Test cricket scene, especially after the conclusion of the England series.
“Yashasvi Jaiswal will easily settle in home conditions. He’s also a left-hander. I think he’ll establish himself completely in the Indian Test team after this series,” remarked Gavaskar during a chat with Star Sports.
Also READ: 4 Players who can replace Virat Kohli in India’s squad for the first two Tests against England
Gavaskar pins hope on No. 5 batter
Gavaskar’s attention also turned to Shreyas Iyer, an all-format batter who aims to rejuvenate his Test career in the upcoming five-game series against England. Despite a quiet series against South Africa, Iyer showcased his skills in the Ranji Trophy, leading the Mumbai batting charge as a warm-up for the challenging encounters with the English side.
“In the World Cup, Shreyas Iyer batted brilliantly in Indian pitches, so I’m hoping he’ll play similarly at No.5 in the Test series. He batted aggressively, was quite watchful at the start and then his stroke-making after reading the pitch was a delight to watch. I hope he’ll replicate that,” added Gavaskar.
