Virat Kohli is all set to undergo a fitness assessment in the United Kingdom on Friday, with the outcome expected to determine his availability for the upcoming ODI series against England.
Kohli missed the ongoing series against Afghanistan because of a hamstring injury, but his recovery has progressed well. Before picking up the setback, he played a pivotal role in guiding Royal Challengers Bengaluru to their second successive IPL title, finishing as one of the key contributors to the team’s successful campaign.
Kohli is recovering from a right hamstring injury, including a rare distal semimembranosus tendon tear. The injury was sustained during the IPL 2026 final and he is undergoing rehab under the supervision of BCCI medical staff in London as well as at the Centre of Excellence.
Meanwhile, Hardik Pandya is unlikely to be part of India’s team for the upcoming tour of England. Although he was named in the ODI team for the Afghanistan series subject to clearing fitness protocols, indications are that the all-rounder will not be included for the England assignment.
On a positive note, former India skipper Rohit Sharma is expected to retain his place for the England ODI series after featuring in all three games against Afghanistan, easing concerns over his fitness and availability.
Rohit’s future in ODIs and his preparation for the 2027 World Cup have become key talking points since he and Kohli stepped away from the Test format last year, with questions continuing around form, fitness and long-term planning for the next major ICC event.
