'He's one of the best players, but...' - Mark Wood's clear take on Virat Kohli's unavailability

England pacer Mark Wood reacted to Indian batter Virat Kohli missing the first two Tests of the five-match series between India and England. He said that they look at all the opposition batters in the same way as they possess quality.

With just a few days ahead of the Test series between India and England, the hosts were jolted with the big blow. Star batter Virat Kohli pulled out of the first two games due to personal reasons and it shook the fans of the Indian cricket team.

Almost everyone was excited to see Virat Kohli against England as he would’ve been a key for India in the Tests. The batter has been the backbone of the team for more than one decade and with youngsters in the middle order, his experience was needed for the team.

But with Virat Kohli not being there, it will be an opportunity for some other batter to step up and stake his claim. Although Kohli’s absence will leave a massive void, with the series being at home, it can be a sign of relief for the team.

Mark Wood was asked about if Virat Kohli’s absence would be an advantage for England. Replying to this, he didn’t read into this much. He believes that all the Indian batters are quality and whoever will step up will deliver. Speaking to reporters, he explained (as quoted by Cricbuzz):

“We look [at] them exactly the same [way]. They are quality, all through the batting line-up. Obviously he’s one of the best players ever. But you look right through the line-up, they’ve got quality players. The next guy who steps in is also a quality player.”

Mark Wood further added that India despite the absence of Virat Kohli will have all their bases covered. He is aware of the fact that India are dominating at home but they are up for the challenge. He added:

“Like I mentioned before, we know the challenges here. India very rarely lose at home. I think it’s almost like a bit of a free hit for us, we can come in here and give it a go and try something a bit different. India in general have all their bases covered.”

This is another chance to do something historic – Mark Wood

Mark Word pointed out that England scripted history in Pakistan and the upcoming series will be an opportunity for them to do something historic. He explained:

“Good seam bowlers, good spinners, top-quality batsmen. But that’s the challenge… we made history in Pakistan recently… the first team to win every match there. This is another chance to do something historic, and try and beat India in their own conditions.”

Mark Wood would be one of the vital cogs in the wheel for India. In flat conditions, his raw pace could prove to be handy for the team. The fast bowler over the past few years has been doing extremely well for the team. A lot would be dependent on him as he steps up for his team.