Virat Kohli withdraws from first two matches of India's Test series with England

Virat Kohli has pulled out of the first two matches of India’s Test series with England (Picture: Getty)

India have announced that Virat Kohli has been forced to withdraw from the first two matches of the side’s upcoming Test series with England.

Kohli, 35, had been in line to be named in India’s XI for the opening Test in Hyderabad, starting on Thursday, but a statement from the BCCI has confirmed his immediate departure from the hosts’ training camp, citing ‘personal reasons’.

A replacement will be named for Kohli in due course, with the iconic former India captain set to return for the final three matches of this winter’s eagerly anticipated five-match series.

It comes after England lost one of their key players in the shape of Harry Brook, who has returned home from the tour with immediate effect, also due to personal reasons.

‘Virat has spoken to captain Rohit Sharma, the team management and the selectors and has emphasised that while representing the country has always been his top priority, certain personal situations demand his presence and undivided attention,’ a statement from the BCCI read.

‘The BCCI respects his decision and the board and team management has extended its support to the star batter and is confident in the abilities of the remaining squad members to step up and deliver commendable performances in the Test series.’

‘The BCCI requests the media and fans to respect Virat Kohli’s privacy during this time and refrain from speculating on the nature of his personal reasons. The focus should remain on supporting the Indian cricket team as they embark on the upcoming challenges in the Test series.’

More to follow.