After missing the first ODI against England in Nagpur, Virat Kohli is expected to make a comeback for the second match in Cuttack. India’s skipper, Rohit Sharma, had confirmed during the toss that Kohli would sit out due to discomfort in his right knee. Despite his absence, India secured a confident four-wicket victory.

According to The Times of India, Kohli’s knee appeared fine during Wednesday’s practice session but swelled up later at the team hotel. 

“His right knee was fine during practice, but once we got back to the team hotel, it swelled up. It doesn’t seem bad though. He will play in the Cuttack ODI in all likelihood,” a team insider told TOI.

A team source indicated that the issue isn’t severe and that he is likely to feature in the Cuttack game. The decision to rest him was reportedly made late Wednesday night.

Kohli was spotted with his right knee strapped while warming up before the first ODI and was seen moving cautiously during drills. The 36-year-old has an outstanding ODI record, amassing 13,906 runs in 295 matches at an average of 58, including 50 centuries.

In his absence, Yashasvi Jaiswal made his ODI debut, while vice-captain Shubman Gill stepped in at number three and delivered a solid performance. Known for his fitness and resilience, Kohli will be eager to put this minor setback behind him and return in top form for the second ODI.