Virat Kohli’s decision to step down as Test captain in January sent shockwaves through the cricket fraternity. The 33-year-old gave up captaincy in the longest form ever, just a day after the team’s 2-1 loss to South Africa. Kohli has resigned as T20I captain, and in December, he also lost the ODI captaincy, with opener Rohit Sharma taking his place in the limited match.
India’s Shardul Thakur opened up about Kohli’s decision on Thursday, insisting it came as a shock to him.
“It’s an exciting time for everyone. No one expected him to resign as Test captain,” Thakur told The Indian Express.
“Under his leadership, we did well, especially overseas. Those series that we lost overseas were close. The team did a great job under him, and no one expected that. However, since he A decision has been made and everyone should respect it,” Thakur said.
Both Rohit and KL Rahul have been touted as Kohli’s successors as Test captains, with young wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant also being recommended by some former batsmen. Rahul also led India in the second Test of the series against South Africa as Kohli was forced to miss the game with a back spasm.
On January 15, Kohli announced his decision to resign as Test captain.
“Seven years of hard work, hard work every day and perseverance to lead the team in the right direction. I have done this with absolute honesty and nothing is left. Everything has to be done somewhere. This stage to stop and for me as India Test captain is now,” Kohli wrote on his official social media platform.
“There have been a lot of ups and downs along the way, but never a lack of effort or a lack of conviction. I’ve always believed in everything I do to give 120% effort, and if I can’t do that, I know it is now Do the right thing. I know absolutely in my heart that I can’t be dishonest to my team.”
Complete News Source : Hindustan Times
