Aoba Tanaka 
India’s preparations for the upcoming Test series against South Africa have faced setbacks as opener Ruturaj Gaikwad has been ruled out due to a lingering finger injury. Meanwhile, captain Virat Kohli, who had to abruptly depart for India due to a family emergency, is expected to rejoin the squad in time for the first Test at Centurion on December 26.
Gaikwad, 26, sustained a finger injury during the second ODI against South Africa at Port Elizabeth on December 19. Despite efforts, he has not fully recovered, leading to the decision by the team management, in consultation with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), to release him from the squad immediately. Gaikwad is set to return to India and is expected to reach by Saturday.
On the other hand, Virat Kohli, who left South Africa for Mumbai three days ago, is anticipated to make a swift return. The nature of the family emergency remains undisclosed, but BCCI sources confirm that Kohli will be back in Johannesburg in time for the opening Test. He secured permission to skip the ongoing three-day intra-squad practice game in Pretoria, where Indian players are currently engaged.
In the practice game, several Indian players have displayed promising performances. Sarfaraz Khan and Abhimanyu Easwaran utilized their opportunities effectively, while captain Rohit Sharma, along with pacers Jasprit Bumrah, Prasidh Krishna, and Shardul Thakur, showcased commendable form.
The conclusion of the one-day international series on Thursday and the ongoing practice game on Friday marks a pivotal moment for the Indian contingent. All players will regroup in Johannesburg before traveling to Centurion for the Boxing Day Test. Following the conclusion of the first Test on December 30, the teams will shift to Cape Town for the second and final Test, scheduled to commence on January 3.
As the Indian team navigates these challenges, the focus remains on overcoming adversity and delivering stellar performances in the highly anticipated Test series against South Africa. The return of Virat Kohli is poised to provide a significant boost to the team as they strive for success on South African soil.
