After days of speculations, Virat Kohli has finally announced that he will be stepping down as the Indian captain for T20I after the ICC Men's T20 World Cup. Kohli said he needs space to fully lead ODI and Test teams and has had prolonged discussions with Rohit, team management, and the BCCI regarding this matter.
Sharing the news on his social media, Kohli wrote, "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".
He added, "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."
He concluded by saying, "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 the secretary Mr Jay Shah and the President of 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."
Earlier, according to a Times of India report, sources from BCCI had stated, "Virat himself will make the announcement. He is of the view that he needs to concentrate on his batting and go back to becoming what he’s always been – the best batsman in the world."
Kohli-led Team India had come very close to winning the ICC World Test Championship where the team lost to New Zealand. India last won the ICC Trophy in 2013 under MS Dhoni-led the Men In Blue to glory at the Champions Trophy.
