"Let Me Clear That Our Mom...": Kohli's Brother Slams Fake News On Family

As the Indian cricket team gears up for the second Test against England in Vizag, there's no update on the possible availability of Virat Kohli from the third Test onwards. Kohli pulled out of the first two matches of the series owing to a 'personal issue'. While the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) urged fans to refrain from getting into conspiracies and rumours, some social media accounts alleged that Virat's absence is down to his mother's health.

However, Virat's brother Vikas took to social media to quash those rumours, slamming those peddling fake news about their mother's health.

"Hello everyone. I have noticed that there is this fake news about our mom's health been circulating around. Let me clear that our mom is absolutely fit and fine. Also, I would request everyone and also the media, not to spread such news without proper information," Vikas wrote in a post on Instagram.

Earlier, the BCCI said in a release, "Virat Kohli has requested the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to be withdrawn from the first two Tests of the upcoming Test series against England, citing personal reasons."

"Virat has spoken to Captain Rohit Sharma, the team management and the selectors and has emphasized that while representing the country has always been his top priority, certain personal situations demand his presence and undivided attention," the statement further read.

"The BCCI respects his decision and the Board and team management has extended its support to the star batter and is confident in the abilities of the remaining squad members to step up and deliver commendable performances in the Test series.

The likes of Rajat Patidar and Sarfaraz Khan have come in as batting replacements in the Indian team after Kohli and KL Rahul were ruled out. Rahul might return to the team for the third Test but there's no update on Virat yet.