Kohli’s decision to step down has been made keeping in mind the future roadmap: Ganguly

Tags: India, Virat Kohli, Sourav Chandidas Ganguly

Published on: Sep 17, 2021

BCCI president Sourav Ganguly has termed Virat Kohli’s decision to quit as India’s T20I captain after the World Cup as one that has been made keeping in mind the future roadmap. On Thursday, Kohli through an official statement on social media, stated that he would be stepping down as T20I captain after the World Cup in the UAE in October-November.

Reacting to the decision, Ganguly was quoted as saying by ANI, “He has been a true asset for Indian cricket & led with aplomb. He’s one of the most successful captains in all formats. The decision has been made keeping in mind the future roadmap. We thank him for his tremendous performance as T20 captain.”

While the BCCI is yet to announce a replacement for Kohli as India’s T20I captain, Rohit Sharma looks one of the likeliest candidates to take over. Kohli, meanwhile, will continue to lead the team in ODIs and Tests.

“I’ve decided to step down as the T20 captain after this T20 World Cup in Dubai in October. Understanding workload is a very important thing and considering my immense workload over the last 8-9 years playing all three formats and captaining regularly for last five to six years, I feel I need to give myself space to be fully ready to lead the Indian team in Test and ODI cricket," Kohli said in his statement, explaining his decision.

BCCI Secretary Jay Shah, who had earlier denied any change in Team India’s captaincy plans, on Thursday admitted that the cricket board had been discussing the matter with Kohli.

“We have a clear roadmap for Team India. Considering the workloads and ensuring that we have a smooth transition, Mr. Virat Kohli has decided to step down as T20I Captain after the upcoming World Cup," Shah said

“I have been in discussions with Virat and the leadership team for the last six months and the decision has been thought through. Virat will continue to contribute as a player and as a senior member of the side in shaping the future course of Indian cricket," he added

Kohli took over as India’s limited-overs captain from MS Dhoni in 2017. He has so far led India in 45 T20 games, of which the team has won 27 and lost 14. Two matches have been tied while two did not produce any result.

--By A Cricket Correspondent

Related News