Star batter Virat Kohli showcased his raw power during a net session at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, smashing a shot that broke through a stadium wall ahead of India's Test series against Bangladesh. Kohli, who is returning to Test cricket after an eight-month hiatus, is gearing up for a crucial period in India's Test schedule.

Kohli returns to Test cricket after long break

Virat Kohli, one of India's greatest Test cricketers, is set to make his much-anticipated return to the longest format of the game as India prepares for the first Test against Bangladesh, starting on September 19. The 35-year-old last featured in Test cricket during a two-match series against South Africa in January, after which he took a break to welcome his son, Akaay. Kohli missed India’s subsequent home Test series against England, where Rohit Sharma led the team to a 4-1 victory.

Now, Kohli is expected to play a key role in India’s upcoming 10 Test matches through January 2025. The schedule includes a two-match series against Bangladesh, three Tests against New Zealand, and a high-profile five-Test tour of Australia between November 2024 and January 2025.

Asteroid landed in Chepauk stadium#INDvsBAN #ViratKohli #ViratKohli𓃵 #Virat pic.twitter.com/IVxALXCWbd

— Jr.VK (@simhadri03) September 15, 2024

Virat Kohli broke the wall of Team India dressing room at Chepauk during the practice session 🤯🔥 pic.twitter.com/A1IEG64Ms8

— Virat Kohli Fan Club (@Trend_VKohli) September 15, 2024

Kohli's brute force smashes stadium wall

During a practice session in Chennai, Kohli was seen in supreme form, hitting the ball with precision and power. One of his aggressive shots was so forceful that it punched a hole in a wall at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium, leaving onlookers, including assistant coach Abhishek Nayak, in awe. The video of Kohli’s powerful strike quickly went viral on social media, further showcasing his readiness for the upcoming series.

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India currently leads the World Test Championship (WTC) standings with a points percentage of 68.52, and their upcoming series against Bangladesh, New Zealand, and Australia will be pivotal in maintaining their top position. With Kohli back in the squad and showing impressive form, expectations are high as India looks to solidify their dominance in Test cricket.

India squad: Rohit Sharma (C), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (WK), Dhruv Jurel (WK), R Ashwin, R Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah, Yash Dayal.

Bangladesh squad: Najmul Hossain Shanto (C), Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Zakir Hasan, Shadman Islam, Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim, Shakib Al Hasan, Litton Kumer Das, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taijul Islam, Nayeem Hasan, Nahid Rana, Hasan Mahmud, Taskin Ahmed, Syed Khaled Ahmed, Jaker Ali Anik

Virat Kohli, one of cricket’s most celebrated figures, has decided to take a short break after a grueling IPL 2024 season. This means he will join the Indian squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup a bit later than expected. He is set to fly out to New York on May 30; Kohli might miss India’s warm-up match against Bangladesh on June 1.

Kohli’s IPL 2024 Performance

Virat Kohli had a stellar IPL season with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), amassing 741 runs in 15 innings. His consistent performances helped RCB reach the playoffs, though Rajasthan Royals knocked them out in the Eliminator.

Reason for the Break

Kohli’s decision to take a break is rooted in the need for rest and recovery. Kohli plans to spend this break in New York, a city he has often visited to unwind and rejuvenate.

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“Kohli had informed us way beforehand that he will be joining the team late and that is why the BCCI has kept his visa appointment for a later date. He is expected to fly out to New York in the early morning of May 30th. The BCCI has agreed to his request,” a BCCI official was quoted as saying by the publication.

Impact on Team India

Kohli’s late arrival has several implications for Team India. While his absence in the initial warm-up match against Bangladesh might be felt, it also allows other players to step up and make their mark.

Hardik Pandya and Sanju Samson will also join the team later, which will affect the team dynamics and composition initially. Samson, a talented wicketkeeper-batter, will also be crucial to the team’s plans. Their late arrival will require the team to adjust quickly and bring fresh energy and perspectives. Samson reportedly has some personal work to attend to in Dubai.

Team India’s T20 World Cup Squad

The Indian squad for the T20 World Cup is packed with talent and experience. Key players include captain Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Shivam Dube, Mohammed Siraj, Axar Patel, and Shubman Gill. Each player will have a specific role in the team’s success.