Kohli to step down as T20I captain after WC

|| CF DESK ||

Virat Kohli has decided to step down as India's T20I captain after this year's T20 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates and Oman.

The 32-year-old said he made the choice after "a lot of thinking and discussions with my close people" as well as the India leadership group, which includes head coach Ravi Shastri and limited-overs vice-captain Rohit Sharma.

Kohli will continue to lead the test and one-day international sides.

Kohli’s statement read: “I have been fortunate enough to not only represent India but to 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.

Kohli's decision was attributed to the "immense workload" he has been managing for most of the last decade as an all-format player and captain.

“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 the 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 in my time as T20 captain, and will continue to do so for the T20 team as a batsman moving forward. 

“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 have 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 the BCCI Sourav Ganguly along with all the selectors about the same. I will continue to serve Indian cricket and the Indian team to the best of my ability.”

Kohli, who has played 90 T20Is for India, has captained the side in 45 of those matches, leading the side to victory in 27 of them.