Virat Kohli has stepped down as India’s Test skipper, which can only be termed as a surprise statement. On Saturday (January 15), the 33-year-old released a statement on Twitter. Kohli’s astonishing proposal comes only one day after India’s Test series setback to South Africa. Despite a 1-0 lead, India struggled to make their first Test series in South Africa.
Many were criticized as a result of this. Therefore, Kohli’s departure from Test leadership never appeared likely. Kohli praised the BCCI in his note for providing him the option to lead the country. He also hailed former coach Ravi Shastri and former captain, MS Dhoni, for their help along the way. Kohli, who stood down as India’s white-ball skipper last year, has also stated that he believes the time has come for him to resign as Test captain.
I have always believed in giving my 120 percent in everything: Virat Kohli
“It’s been 7 years of hard work, toil and relentless perseverance everyday to take the team in the right direction. I’ve done the job with absolute honesty and left nothing out there. Every thing has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test Captain of India, it’s now,” Kohli wrote in his tweet.
“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. 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. I have absolute clarity in my heart and I cannot be dishonest to my team,” he added.
However, Kohli praised his teammates for believing in him and his ambition of leading the squad to new heights. “I want to thank the BCCI for giving me the opportunity to lead my country for such a long period of time and more importantly to all the teammates who bought into the vision I had for the team from day one and never gave up in any situation,” stated Kohli.
“You guys have made this journey so memorable and beautiful. To Ravi Bhai and the support group who were the engine behind this vehicle that moved us upwards in Test Cricket consistently, you all have played a massive role in bringing this vision to life. Lastly, a big thank you to MS Dhoni who believed in me as a Captain and found me to be an able individual who could take Indian Cricket forward,” he added.
