India vs England: Virat Kohli to Return? Shubman Gill Drops Big Hint Ahead of 2nd ODI vs England!

In the first ODI against England in Nagpur, India secured a four-wicket win, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. However, Virat Kohli’s absence from the playing XI due to a knee injury raised concerns, especially with the ICC Champions Trophy approaching. Captain Rohit Sharma confirmed that Kohli had swelling in his knee but assured that it was not a serious issue.

Providing a major update, Shubman Gill stated that Kohli is expected to return for the second ODI on February 9 at Barabati Stadium, Cuttack. He mentioned that Kohli was fine during the practice session but developed swelling the next morning. Gill himself played at Kohli’s usual No. 3 position and delivered a match-winning knock of 87 runs. He explained that adjusting to the position was not difficult, given his experience at No. 3 in Test matches. He said:

I think I play at number three in Test matches, so it wasn’t a huge adjustment. But, definitely, the situation is slightly different. If you are batting at number three and early wickets fall, you have to play according to the situation. However, if the openers have built a good partnership, then you have to carry that momentum forward. That was my thought process—to bat according to the situation and the over in which I had to come in.

India has been dealing with multiple injury concerns, with Jasprit Bumrah still recovering from a back issue and Mohammed Shami returning after a long break since the 2023 World Cup final. Kohli’s return in the second ODI will be a major boost for the team as they look to clinch the series against England.