India win toss, opt to bat in 2nd Test against SA, Kohli to miss contest due to back spasm
The Hindu
All-rounder Hanuma Vihari has come in the playing XI to replace Kohli
Stand-in India captain K.L. Rahul won the toss and elected to bat in the second Test against South Africa, here on January 3.
Rahul is leading the side in the absence of regular skipper Virat Kohli, who has been forced out of the Test due to upper back spasm. Rahul said at the toss that the skipper is expected to be available for the series-finale from January 11.
"Virat is having an upper back spasm. The physios are working on him and hopefully he will recover in time for the next Test," he said.

The Union Home Ministry has announced a major policy shift for ex-Agniveers, raising their reservation in Group C posts of the Central Armed Police Forces from 10% to 50%, starting with the Border Security Force. Ex-Agniveers are exempt from physical tests but must clear written exams, with a minimum qualification of Class 10 pass. The move aims to provide stable government jobs for Agniveers retiring in 2026, sparking debate on its impact on other candidates.












