Virat Kohli.
Virat Kohli. Credits: Twitter

Indian Test skipper Virat Kohli had to miss the second test in Johannesburg because of a back spasm. Hanuma Vhari replaced him in the playing XI as that was the only change in Team India’s playing XI. India are leading the series 1-0 and have a chance to create history by beating the hosts at home in a Test series for the very first time.

Meanwhile, speaking to ESPN Cricinfo, former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrakar said that not seeing Virat Kohli at the toss came as a big surprise to him. He further admitted that various thoughts went through his mind to see him absent at the toss.

Shocking In So Many Ways: Sanjay Manjrekar on Virat Kohli’s Absence In Second Test

Virat Kohli, Sanjay Manjrekar
Virat Kohli, Sanjay Manjrekar. (Photo: Twitter)

“I was absolutely shocked when I read that KL Rahul is walking out for the toss. All kinds of thoughts came over my mind. Various thoughts, but who would’ve thought that an injury to Virat Kohli because he’s one of those guys who never ever miss a Test match. And considering that India is in a great position to win and make history, it’s really unfortunate. It seems he’s really hurting. Shocking in many ways because it’s a surprise. And a batting setback as well despite his form.” Sanjay Manjrekar said in the preview session.

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While admitting that Kohli’s absence was unfortunate, Manjrekar said that he was happy to see KL Rahul elevated as the captain of the side.

KL Rahul after his century in Centurion. Photo- AFP
KL Rahul. (Photo- AFP)

“There’s something about Test match performances. You have Rohit Sharma who had a great Test series vs ENG. Immediately after that, he became a captaincy candidate. If not for his injury, he would’ve captained this match. Test match performances really help the credibility of a player and KL Rahul’s performance in England and his 100 recently has contributed to his rise and stature in the team. Seen this with Rohit Sharma and now with KL Rahul. And this is all to do with the hard work that they put in, in England,” he said.

Rahul scored a fifty in his first Test as captain which helped India get to 202 in their first innings. Marco Jansen picked four wickets as Kagiso Rabada and Duanne Olivier picked three each. South Africa at stumps were 35/1.

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Anshuman Roy is an author at Cricketaddictor. He has been working with the organization since January 2022 and he has written more than 6000 articles for the website.