INDIA: In an unexpected turn of events, former Indian cricket team captain Virat Kohli has temporarily left the squad to address a personal emergency in Mumbai. Kohli’s absence from the team’s preparations for the upcoming ICC Cricket ODI World Cup 2023 has stirred speculation and curiosity among fans and media alike.
Team India’s first warm-up match against England in Guwahati was washed out due to heavy rain, leaving fans eagerly awaiting the second warm-up match against the Netherlands in Thiruvananthapuram on Tuesday. However, the absence of the star batsman and former captain, Virat Kohli, has now overshadowed the cricketing action.
Media reports have suggested that Kohli’s unexpected trip to Mumbai might be related to his personal life. The rumor mill is abuzz with speculation that Kohli and his wife, Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma, may be expecting their second child. The couple’s first child, Vamika, was born three years ago, and any news of another addition to their family would undoubtedly be of great interest to their fans.
A source from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed that Kohli’s visit to Mumbai was due to personal reasons. The source also reassured fans that Kohli would rejoin the team soon, alleviating concerns about his long-term absence.
While Kohli’s personal matters take precedence, the rest of the Indian cricket team has already arrived in Thiruvananthapuram to prepare for the upcoming warm-up match. However, inclement weather seems to be following the team, as concerns mount about the match being affected by rain, much like the first warm-up match against England.
Intermittent rain has persisted in Thiruvananthapuram, creating unfavorable playing conditions. Despite the weather challenges, the team is scheduled to have an optional training session on Monday, weather permitting, at the KCA – St Xavier’s College Cricket Ground in Thiruvananthapuram.
The rain has already disrupted several matches in Thiruvananthapuram, including those featuring South Africa, Afghanistan, Australia, and the Netherlands. With New Zealand and South Africa scheduled to play on Monday before India’s match against the Netherlands on Tuesday, concerns about the weather’s impact on the upcoming fixtures remain prevalent.
India’s World Cup 2023 campaign is set to kick off on October 8 with a match against Australia in Chennai. The tournament itself will commence on October 5, with England and New Zealand, the last World Cup finalists, facing off in Ahmedabad.
As fans eagerly await further updates on Virat Kohli’s return and the outcome of the upcoming matches, cricket enthusiasts worldwide will be hoping for clear skies and exciting cricket in the days to come.
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