India camp shares official update on Virat Kohli's future after knee injury

The India national cricket team is concerned about star batter Virat Kohli's fitness ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which is scheduled to commence on February 19. This news came after Virat Kohli experienced swelling in his right knee ahead of the first ODI match against England in Nagpur.

Kohli, known for his fitness, has missed two matches in 2025 due to injuries. Earlier in January, Kohli was set to feature for Delhi in the Ranji Trophy after a 12-year gap but missed the second-round match against Saurashtra due to a neck sprain. He returned for Delhi’s next fixture against the Railways.

Virat Kohli Missed the First ODI Against England Due to a Sore Knee

Virat Kohli missed the first ODI against England due to a sore knee. During the pre-match session, Kohli was seen with his right knee heavily strapped and moving cautiously under the watchful eye of team physio Kamlesh Jain. While his movements showed discomfort, the injury did not seem serious.

Yashasvi Jaiswal and Harshit Rana made their ODI debuts. Captain Rohit Sharma revealed at the toss that Kohli had been rested. His injury has become a concern with the Champions Trophy fast approaching. Kohli’s fitness will be closely monitored, and he is expected to return for the next game in Cuttack.

Virat Kohli's Right Knee Was Fine During Practice, But...

According to a report by The Times of India, Virat Kohli was rested due to swelling in his right knee, a decision made late on Wednesday night. A member of the team’s support staff said that the injury is not serious, and Kohli is likely to be available for the upcoming ODI in Cuttack.

"His right knee was fine during practice, but once we got back to the hotel, it swelled up. It doesn't seem that bad though. He will play the Cuttack ODI in all likelihood," a team insider told TOI.

The report added that the 36-year-old cricketer has not yet undergone scans for his knee injury. It remains to be seen whether he will travel to Bengaluru for a check-up at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) or join the team in Cuttack for the next ODI.

He Was Fine Till Yesterday's Practice Session - Shubman Gill

Team India's ODI vice-captain Shubman Gill eased concerns over Virat Kohli's fitness. Gill replaced Kohli at No. 3 and was named Player of the Match for his outstanding performance. Gill stated that Kohli had some swelling in his knee upon waking up, and he is expected to be fit for the second ODI on Sunday.

"When he woke up in the morning, he had some swelling in his knee. He was fine till yesterday's practice session. There's nothing to worry about. He will definitely be fit for the next game," Gill told the host broadcaster (as quoted by India Today).

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