Virat Kohli shocked the Indian cricket world by announcing that he is resigning as the national side’s Test captain, after leading the team to memorable overseas victories in his seven years in charge.
The 33-year old, considered one of the best batsmen of his era, took to Twitter to announce his decision a day after India’s 2-1 series defeat in South Africa.
“Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test captain of India, it’s now,” he posted on Twitter.
“There have been many ups and also some downs along the journey, but never has there been a lack of effort or lack of belief,” Kohli said.
“I have always believed in giving my 120 percent in everything I do, and if I can’t do that, I know it’s not the right thing to do.”
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) January 15, 2022
The feisty top-order batsman has had a difficult relationship with the Indian cricket board (BCCI) since stepping down as the T20 captain after last year’s T20 World Cup.
That cost him the ODI captaincy as well, with the Board of Control for Cricket in India installing Rohit Sharma as captain in both the short formats.
Kohli, who took over the reins in 2014, led India in a record 68 Test matches, winning 40.
BCCI officials were not immediately available to confirm who would take over as India’s next Test captain, although opener Lokesh Rahul’s name has already started doing the rounds.
ARR
