Star England batter set to miss Test series against India due to personal reason

England are currently in India for the upcoming 5-match Test series. The three Lions were the last team to defeat the hosts in the 2012-13 edition and since then the home side have won 16 consecutive series at home. Ahead of the first Test that is scheduled on 25th January, their star batter Harry Brook has returned home with immediate effect and missed England's Test series in India due to personal reasons. He has been one of the most consistent batters for England in Test cricket in the last year or so. 

According to the ECB's official report, Brook's replacement will be announced soon. The right-handed batter has been an important member of the new-age England Test team, with his aggressive strokeplay and helping the Bazball tactics. In 2023, he scored 701 runs in eight matches, making him England's second top scorer.

Brook's absence has created an important hole in the English middle order, and Ben Foakes may get a chance. Will Jacks, who was part of the English squad on their December 2022 trip to Pakistan, might replace Harry Brook in the squad. Jack's aggressive batting and off-breaks make him an all-rounder who can be useful in Indian conditions.

England selectors will confirm a replacement player for the tour in due course: England Cricket Board

As per the ECB statement, "Harry Brook is set to return home with immediate effect for personal reasons from the England Men's Test tour of India. He will not be returning to India. The Brook family respectfully requests privacy during this time. In light of this, the ECB and the family kindly request the media and the public to respect their wish for privacy and refrain from intruding on their private space." 

"The England selectors will confirm a replacement player for the tour in due course. Our thoughts are with you at this time, Brooky," ECB added on Twitter. The first Test of the five-match Test series will be played in Hyderabad and is scheduled for the 25th of January.