Virat Kohli on Thursday announced he will step down as India’s T20 skipper after the T20 World Cup in UAE but will continue to lead the side in ODIs and Test cricket, a decision that paves the way for Rohit Sharma to captain in the shortest format.
“I’ve decided to step down as the T20 captain after this T20 World Cup in Dubai in October,” the 32-year-old Kohli, who is here to compete in the IPL that resumes on Sunday, said in a statement posted on his Twitter page.
kohli cited workload management as the reason to give up T20I captaincy. It remains to be seen who will take over as India’s T20I captain after frontrunner to be his successor.
Virat Kohli has led India in 45 T20I internationals since taking over from MS Dhoni in 2017. He has a winning percentage of 64.44 with 29 victories and 14 defeats. “I have been fortunate enough to not only represent India but also lead the Indian cricket team to my utmost capability. I thank everyone who has supported me in my journey as the captain of the Indian cricket team. I couldn’t have done without them- the boys, the support staff, the selection committee, my coaches and each and every Indian who played for us to win,” Virat Kohli said in a statement on social media.
Discussed decision with Ravi Shastri, Rohit Sharms: Virat Kohli
“Understanding workload is a very important thing and considering my immense workload over the last 8-9 years playing all 3 formats and captaining regularly for the last 5-6 years, I feel I need to give myself space to be fully ready to lead the Indian team in Test and ODI cricket.
“I have given everything to the team during my time as T20 captain and I will continue to do so for the T20 team as a batsman moving forward.
“Of course, arriving at this decision took a lot of time. After a lot of contemplation and discussion with my close people, Ravi Bhai and also Rohit, who has been an essential part of the leadership group, I have decided to step down as the T20 captain after this T20 World Cup in Dubai in October.
“I have also spoken to secretary Mr. Jay Shah and the president of the BCCI Mr Sourav Ganguly along with the selectors about the same. I will continue to serve Indian cricket and the Indian team to the best of my ability.”
India will begin their T20 World Cup campaign against Pakistan in Dubai on October 24. Kohli will lead Royal Challengers Bangalore in the remainder of IPL 2021, starting September 19.
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