Kohli set for 2nd ODI as Gill shines at No. 3
Shubman Gill dismissed concerns over Virat Kohli’s knee injury, confirming his availability for the second ODI against England in Cuttack on February 9. Kohli missed the first ODI in Nagpur due to swelling in his right knee, delaying his return to India’s ODI XI.
Kohli attempted a late fitness test but remained unfit for the series opener. Shreyas Iyer replaced him in the XI, and Gill moved up to No. 3. India secured a four-wicket victory, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. Speaking post-match, Gill reassured fans about Kohli’s condition.
“He had some swelling in his knee this morning but was fine in yesterday’s practice. Nothing serious. He will be fit for the next game,” Gill said.
Gill’s Impact at No. 3
With Kohli sidelined, Gill stepped up at No. 3, anchoring India’s chase with a composed 87 off 95 balls. His fluent strokeplay and smart shot selection kept India in control despite early wickets.
“I bat at No. 3 in Tests, so the adjustment wasn’t huge,” Gill explained. “If wickets fall early, I play accordingly. If openers build a strong start, I carry the momentum.”
With a series win in sight, India looks stronger with Kohli’s return for the second ODI in Cuttack on Sunday.
