Virat Kohli. Image Credits: AFP
In a significant development, finally, the wait is over, and there is some good news for the Indian fans related to Virat Kohli's injury. It is important to note that Virat Kohli was ruled out of the ongoing Afghanistan ODIs due to an injury and was even doubtful for the England ODIs.
However, the latest developments indicate that the former India captain is recovering well and could be available for selection sooner than expected.
What Injury Did Virat Kohli Suffer?
Virat Kohli sustained a rare distal semimembranosus tendon tear during the IPL 2026 final while playing for Royal Challengers Bengaluru against Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad on May 31.
It is vital to note that the Kohli's injury involves a rupture of the lower hamstring tendon located near the back of the knee.
The injury reportedly occurred during the latter stages of Kohli's match-winning unbeaten knock of 75 runs off 42 balls in the IPL 2026 final.
Despite experiencing discomfort, the veteran batter continued batting and helped RCB complete a successful run chase.
Virat Kohli Return Date Out
In a major development, Times of India journalist Gaurav Gupta has reported that Virat Kohli is likely to regain full fitness in time for the England ODI series.
While the Afghanistan ODI series was out of reach, the latest update has considerably boosted hopes of seeing India's batting stalwart back in action against England.
"Kohli has started his rehabilitation, and his injury is healing quickly. He is expected to report to the BCCI's Centre of Excellence for his fitness assessment and clearance soon. If his recovery goes as planned, Kohli is expected to make his comeback to the team in the upcoming England series," a source said (TOI).
It is important to mention the the India vs England ODI series will start on July 1, with the second and third ODIs scheduled on July 16 and 19. Ahead of the three-match ODI series, the 'Men in Blue' will also feature in a five-match T20I series.
India's Schedule For England Series To Be Announced Soon
It is vital to note that India's squad for the England series (both ODIs and T20Is) is expected to be announced soon. According to the same reports, it was stated that the squad will be picked within 3-4 days, and it would be interesting to see if Virat Kohli will be part of the squad.
"The Indian ODI team for the tour of England in July is set to be picked later this week. "The selection committee meeting to pick India's ODI team for the England tour will be held in the next 3-4 days," @BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia told me. Expect #ViratKohli to be back!"
Kohli has been in impressive form with the bat, and in the IPL 2026, the star player made 675 runs in 16 innings at an average of 56.25 and a strike rate of 165.85.
The stylish batter last featured in the New Zealand Tour of India 2026: in the series, he made 240 runs in 3 innings at a strike rate of 105.26.
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