Bhubaneswar, Feb. 7 -- Indian cricket star Virat Kohli missed the first ODI against England in Nagpur due to a swollen right knee, an unusual incident for the fitness-conscious batter. Although he was seen warming up before the toss, his knee was heavily strapped, and he moved cautiously.

At the toss during the first ODI, India captain Rohit Sharma confirmed that Kohli was left out of the playing XI due to the knee issue.

However, according to a report by The Times of India, the team management is optimistic about his return for the second ODI in Barabati, Cuttack on February 9.

"His knee was fine during practice, but it swelled up after returning to the hotel. It doesn't seem too serious, and he is likely to play in Cuttack," the news...