Virat Kohli confirms he will step down from T20I captaincy after T20 World Cup 2021.
In a shocking development from Indian cricket, regular skipper Virat Kohli has himself confirmed to step down from shortest format captaincy. The reports earlier created the buzz among the Indian fans, however, the noise was soon neutralised by BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal, who claimed that none of such discussions have taken place in the recent past.
The skipper took to Twitter to announce his decision. His limited-overs deputy Rohit Sharma will lead the side after he steps down following the completion of the ICC T20 World Cup 2021 in Dubai in October.
In the statement issued by the Virat, he stated that the decision has been taken to manage his workload. For the last 5-6 years, he has been leading Indian cricket in all formats tirelessly and has taken Indian cricket to new heights.
Since the workload of all three formats takes a toll on players, especially amid the ongoing pandemic where players have to serve multiple quarantines before any series hence Virat Kohli has opted to leave T20I captaincy in Rohit’s shoulder. However, he further stated that he will continue to lead the Indian ODI and Test side.
The skipper thanked all his teammates along with support staff and the BCCI who have given him the best company during all these years.
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“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 it without them – the boys, the support staff, the selection committee, my coaches and each and every Indian who prayed for us to win.
“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 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 discussions with my close people, Ravi bhai and also Rohit, who have been an essential part of the leadership group, I’ve 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 BCCI Mr Sourav Ganguly along with all the selectors about the same. I will continue to serve Indian Cricket and the Indian Team to the best of my ability,” Kohli wrote in his statement.
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