SA vs IND: Virat Kohli rejoins India Squad in South Africa

Virat Kohli has returned to South Africa and he will be available for selection in the SA vs IND first Test match starting December 26 in Centurion. "Kohli took a London trip ahead of the first Test match against South Africa and that was the reason why he did not take part in the intra-squad practice matches," a BCCI official said. He also said that Kohli had multiple training sessions with the team before leaving for London on December 19. He will start practice once again after joining the team in Centurion.

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"Virat Kohli wasn't going to play that game. The team management was aware of his plan and schedule, and it isn't something which happened overnight or due to a family emergency. Look at the player in question, it's Virat Kohli. He is very well planned when it comes to these things and his London trip was communicated and planned well in advance," the official said.

Meanwhile, the Proteas are trying to start Rabada and Ngidi in the first test at Centurion. Rabada was rested from the white ball while Ngidi dropped out after sustaining a left ankle injury ahead of the T20Is.

On Saturday afternoon, Rabada and Nigidi were seen bowling at the centre training wicket at the Supersport Park. Both are coming into the game without match time but the coach isn't overtly bothered.

"They will be fresh and firing (Rabada and Ngidi). I am always a firm believer of freshness," said Conrad ahead of the team's training session on the day. It would have been ideal had they got some mileage in the legs by playing First-Class matches but that's life. You have got to find a way. But I am not bothered that they will be undercooked for the game," the Proteas' coach said.

"KG (Rabada) and Lungi are still in the 15-member squad and available for selection. We will make that decision tomorrow. Hopefully, tomorrow morning we will have a full squad of 15 to select from," the coach further added.