<p>Former India cricketer and cricket expert Sanjay Manjrekar believes Venkatesh Iyer cannot be considered an all-rounder yet for the Indian team. The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) star has been included in the ODI squad for the upcoming series against South Africa which gets underway from Wednesday (January 19).</p>

<p>All-rounder Iyer rose to fame during the second phase of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 last year with his batting exploits. He scored 370 runs and picked up three wickets in ten matches and played an instrumental role in helping KKR reach the final of the tournament. Iyer made his T20I debut for India last year and is now in line to make his ODI debut.</p>

<p>Manjrekar believes India should go with five specialist bowlers in the first ODI against South Africa in Paarl on Thursday even if they include Iyer in the playing XI. The former India cricketer said India should pick Jayant Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal as the two spinners while Jasprit Bumrah, Shardul Thakur and Deepak Chahar can form the pace attack.</p>

<p>"I believe India should go with five bowlers. Venkatesh Iyer could be the sixth bowling option. Yuzvendra Chahal and Jayant Yadav will be spin-bowling options with pacers Jasprit Bumrah, Shardul Thakur and Deepak Chahar as the other specialist bowlers," Manjrekar said on <em>ESPNCriicnfo.</em></p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-broke-down-when-virat-kohli-revealed-he-cried-after-ms-dhonis-test-retirement-in-2014-445770">'I broke down': When Virat Kohli revealed he cried after MS Dhoni's Test retirement in 2014</a></strong></p>

<p>Iyer, who bowls handy leg-spin, has bowled just three overs for India so far in T20Is and can be utilised as the sith bowler as per Manjrekar, who has doubts over his all-round credentials as of now. While he is not sure about his bowling, Manjrekar said there is something special about Iyer as a batter.</p>

<p>"I'm not sure Venkatesh Iyer is an all-rounder yet. But he is maybe someone who can chip in with 4-5 overs. But I think there's something special about his batting," he said.</p>

<p>With captain Rohit Sharma set to miss the series, another youngster Ruturaj Gaikwad might make his ODI debut for India on Wednesday and open the batting with stand-in skipper KL Rahul. Iyer, who has been included in the squad in the place of Hardik Pandya, also looks set for his debut.</p>


Former India cricketer and cricket expert Sanjay Manjrekar believes Venkatesh Iyer cannot be considered an all-rounder yet for the Indian team. The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) star has been included in the ODI squad for the upcoming series against South Africa which gets underway from Wednesday (January 19).

Former India cricketer and cricket expert Sanjay Manjrekar believes Venkatesh Iyer cannot be considered an all-rounder yet for the Indian team. The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) star has been included in the ODI squad for the upcoming series against South Africa which gets underway from Wednesday (January 19). All-rounder Iyer rose to fame during the second phase of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 last year with his batting exploits. He scored 370 runs and picked up three wickets in ten matches and played an instrumental role in helping KKR reach the final of the tournament. Iyer made his T20I debut for India last year and is now in line to make his ODI debut. Manjrekar believes India should go with five specialist bowlers in the first ODI against South Africa in Paarl on Thursday even if they include Iyer in the playing XI. The former India cricketer said India should pick Jayant Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal as the two spinners while Jasprit Bumrah, Shardul Thakur and Deepak Chahar can form the pace attack. "I believe India should go with five bowlers. Venkatesh Iyer could be the sixth bowling option. Yuzvendra Chahal and Jayant Yadav will be spin-bowling options with pacers Jasprit Bumrah, Shardul Thakur and Deepak Chahar as the other specialist bowlers," Manjrekar said on ESPNCriicnfo. Also Read: 'I broke down': When Virat Kohli revealed he cried after MS Dhoni's Test retirement in 2014 Iyer, who bowls handy leg-spin, has bowled just three overs for India so far in T20Is and can be utilised as the sith bowler as per Manjrekar, who has doubts over his all-round credentials as of now. While he is not sure about his bowling, Manjrekar said there is something special about Iyer as a batter. "I'm not sure Venkatesh Iyer is an all-rounder yet. But he is maybe someone who can chip in with 4-5 overs. But I think there's something special about his batting," he said. With captain Rohit Sharma set to miss the series, another youngster Ruturaj Gaikwad might make his ODI debut for India on Wednesday and open the batting with stand-in skipper KL Rahul. Iyer, who has been included in the squad in the place of Hardik Pandya, also looks set for his debut.

Not sure Venkatesh Iyer is an all-rounder yet: Sanjay Manjrekar on India star ahead of South Africa ODIs

<p>The search for Virat Kohli's successor as India's next Test captain has already commenced after the latter's shocking announcement last week. Kohli stepped down as the captain of the Indian Test team last week after the visitors lost 2-1 in the recently-concluded three-match Test series against South Africa.</p>

<p>Kohli had earlier stepped down as India's T20I captain last year before being replaced by Rohit Sharma as the ODI captain of the team. After losing white-ball captaincy, Kohli decided to give up the leadership position in Tests as well and will continue playing as a batter for India going forward across all three formats of the game.</p>

<p>Rohit, who is India's present white-ball captain is one of the favourites to take over as the new skipper in Tests while the likes of KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah have also been backed by many to replace Kohli. Former India captain Mohammad Azharuddin also shared his views on the debate and backed Rohit to replace Kohli.</p>

<p>When asked to name his captaincy choice in the longest format, Azharuddin said he would not look too far ahead and would give the opportunity to Rohit to lead the team as he is going to be around for the next 2-3 years at least. Rohit is currently 34 and has a lot of cricket left in himself.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-broke-down-when-virat-kohli-revealed-he-cried-after-ms-dhonis-test-retirement-in-2014-445770">'I broke down': When Virat Kohli revealed he cried after MS Dhoni's Test retirement in 2014</a></strong></p>

<p>Azharuddin also pointed out that the Test captaincy cannot be handed to an inexperienced youngster as it might not be the ideal move. While he backed Rohit, Azharuddin insisted Rohit will have to ensure he is able to up his fitness levels and manage his frequent injuries.</p>

<p>"I feel seeing 5-6 years ahead is a long time. You should definitely look forward but need to see immediate as well. Just to look forward, you cannot give to an inexperienced player, which might cause a problem," Azharuddin said during a discussion on India News.</p>

<p>"I feel Rohit Sharma is a good player and can be a very good captain. He might play cricket for another two or three years, he might play more as well but his fitness will be very important because his hamstring becomes weak repeatedly," added the former India captain.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The search for Virat Kohli's successor as India's next Test captain has already commenced after the latter's shocking announcement last week. Kohli stepped down as the captain of the Indian Test team last week after the visitors lost 2-1 in the recently-concluded three-match Test series against South Africa.

The search for Virat Kohli's successor as India's next Test captain has already commenced after the latter's shocking announcement last week. Kohli stepped down as the captain of the Indian Test team last week after the visitors lost 2-1 in the recently-concluded three-match Test series against South Africa. Kohli had earlier stepped down as India's T20I captain last year before being replaced by Rohit Sharma as the ODI captain of the team. After losing white-ball captaincy, Kohli decided to give up the leadership position in Tests as well and will continue playing as a batter for India going forward across all three formats of the game. Rohit, who is India's present white-ball captain is one of the favourites to take over as the new skipper in Tests while the likes of KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah have also been backed by many to replace Kohli. Former India captain Mohammad Azharuddin also shared his views on the debate and backed Rohit to replace Kohli. When asked to name his captaincy choice in the longest format, Azharuddin said he would not look too far ahead and would give the opportunity to Rohit to lead the team as he is going to be around for the next 2-3 years at least. Rohit is currently 34 and has a lot of cricket left in himself. Also Read: 'I broke down': When Virat Kohli revealed he cried after MS Dhoni's Test retirement in 2014 Azharuddin also pointed out that the Test captaincy cannot be handed to an inexperienced youngster as it might not be the ideal move. While he backed Rohit, Azharuddin insisted Rohit will have to ensure he is able to up his fitness levels and manage his frequent injuries. "I feel seeing 5-6 years ahead is a long time. You should definitely look forward but need to see immediate as well. Just to look forward, you cannot give to an inexperienced player, which might cause a problem," Azharuddin said during a discussion on India News. "I feel Rohit Sharma is a good player and can be a very good captain. He might play cricket for another two or three years, he might play more as well but his fitness will be very important because his hamstring becomes weak repeatedly," added the former India captain.

'Seeing 5-6 years ahead is long time': Md. Azharuddin names Virat Kohli's replacement as India's Test captain

<p>Virat Kohli brought an end to his seven-year-long stint as the captain of the Indian Test team on Saturday (January 15) after announcing that he will not be leading the side anymore in the longest format. One of the greatest captains of all time in the purest format, Kohli has left a legacy behind that will be hard to match for any Indian Test captain in the future.</p>

<p>Kohli signed off as the most successful Indian Test captain of all time with an impressive 40 wins in 68 Test matches as captain of the team. The batting maestro led from the front and instilled a strong belief in the team which saw them dominate both at home and away from home.</p>

<p>India became a force to reckon with in the longest format under Kohli's leadership and also reached the final of the inaugural edition of the World Test Championship (WTC) last year where they lost to New Zealand by eight wickets. Kohli also became the first Indian captain to win a Test series in Australia when the visitors clinched the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under in 2019.</p>

<p>Kohli had led India for the first time in Tests against Australia in Adelaide on the team's tour Down Under in 2014. He had replaced Dhoni as the captain after the latter missed the game due to a thumb injury. However, little did Kohli know that he was destined to become India's permanent Test captain in the same series.</p>

<p>Dhoni shockingly announced his sudden retirement from Tests after the third Test against the Aussies and handed over the baton to Kohli. In an interview back in 2014, Kohli had revealed an interesting anecdote from the night when Dhoni announced his retirement from Tests.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sunil-gavaskar-explains-why-india-should-not-appoint-rohit-sharma-as-next-test-captain-after-virat-kohli-445727">Sunil Gavaskar explains why India should not appoint Rohit Sharma as next Test captain after Virat Kohli</a></p>

<p>Kohli had recalled how he broke the news to his now better half Anushka Sharma that he will be the permanent captain of the Indian Test team as Dhoni had decided to quit. Kohli revealed he broke down that night as he had never thought he will get to lead India in the oldest format of the game one day.</p>

<p>"Honestly, I was not able to think that I am going to be the Test captain now," Kohli remembered of that day. "After things calmed down a bit, I went to my room. Anushka [Sharma], who had come to watch that series, was there and I told her about the news. Her feelings were also mixed as to how did this happen so suddenly. Why did he [Dhoni] do this?," - Kohli had said in an interview with Cricket Monthly in 2015.</p>

<p>"After a while for both of us it sunk in that I am going to be Test captain of India, not just for one or two games, but permanently. And that is when I broke down, because I never expected this to happen," he had added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/adelaide-to-johannesburg-indias-five-best-test-wins-under-virat-kohlis-captaincy-445501">Adelaide to Johannesburg: India's five best Test wins under Virat Kohli's captaincy</a></p>

<p>Kohli took no time in taking India to the top of ICC Test rankings, lifting them from the seventh spot. It was the start of one of the best eras in India's Test history as the team went on to achieve some of the most memorable wins overseas and at home.</p>

<p>Kohli is not only the most successful Indian captain of all time in Tests but is also the 4th most successful captain of al time overall behind only some of the legends of the game like Graeme Smith, Ricky Ponting and Steve Waugh.</p>


Virat Kohli brought an end to his seven-year-long stint as the captain of the Indian Test team on Saturday (January 15) after announcing that he will not be leading the side anymore in the longest format.

Virat Kohli brought an end to his seven-year-long stint as the captain of the Indian Test team on Saturday (January 15) after announcing that he will not be leading the side anymore in the longest format. One of the greatest captains of all time in the purest format, Kohli has left a legacy behind that will be hard to match for any Indian Test captain in the future. Kohli signed off as the most successful Indian Test captain of all time with an impressive 40 wins in 68 Test matches as captain of the team. The batting maestro led from the front and instilled a strong belief in the team which saw them dominate both at home and away from home. India became a force to reckon with in the longest format under Kohli's leadership and also reached the final of the inaugural edition of the World Test Championship (WTC) last year where they lost to New Zealand by eight wickets. Kohli also became the first Indian captain to win a Test series in Australia when the visitors clinched the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under in 2019. Kohli had led India for the first time in Tests against Australia in Adelaide on the team's tour Down Under in 2014. He had replaced Dhoni as the captain after the latter missed the game due to a thumb injury. However, little did Kohli know that he was destined to become India's permanent Test captain in the same series. Dhoni shockingly announced his sudden retirement from Tests after the third Test against the Aussies and handed over the baton to Kohli. In an interview back in 2014, Kohli had revealed an interesting anecdote from the night when Dhoni announced his retirement from Tests. Also Read: Sunil Gavaskar explains why India should not appoint Rohit Sharma as next Test captain after Virat Kohli Kohli had recalled how he broke the news to his now better half Anushka Sharma that he will be the permanent captain of the Indian Test team as Dhoni had decided to quit. Kohli revealed he broke down that night as he had never thought he will get to lead India in the oldest format of the game one day. "Honestly, I was not able to think that I am going to be the Test captain now," Kohli remembered of that day. "After things calmed down a bit, I went to my room. Anushka [Sharma], who had come to watch that series, was there and I told her about the news. Her feelings were also mixed as to how did this happen so suddenly. Why did he [Dhoni] do this?," - Kohli had said in an interview with Cricket Monthly in 2015. "After a while for both of us it sunk in that I am going to be Test captain of India, not just for one or two games, but permanently. And that is when I broke down, because I never expected this to happen," he had added. Also Read: Adelaide to Johannesburg: India's five best Test wins under Virat Kohli's captaincy Kohli took no time in taking India to the top of ICC Test rankings, lifting them from the seventh spot. It was the start of one of the best eras in India's Test history as the team went on to achieve some of the most memorable wins overseas and at home. Kohli is not only the most successful Indian captain of all time in Tests but is also the 4th most successful captain of al time overall behind only some of the legends of the game like Graeme Smith, Ricky Ponting and Steve Waugh.

'I broke down': When Virat Kohli revealed he cried after MS Dhoni's Test retirement in 2014

<p>KL Rahul will take charge of Team India in the upcoming three ODIs versus South Africa, which gets underway at Boland Park, Paarl on Wednesday (January 19). In Rohit Sharma's absence, Rahul will lead the side for the first time for a full series.</p>

<p>Thus, Rahul will have his fair share of challenges leading the Men in Blue, comprising many veteran players such as former captain Virat Kohli, Shikhar Dhawan, R Ashwin, etc. Ahead of the three ODIs, the 29-year-old Rahul lavished huge praise on Kohli's leadership, whose captaincy tenure ended altogether after quitting as the Test captain (on January 15).</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-1st-odi-prediction-who-will-win-series-opener-between-kl-rahul-led-india-and-south-africa-445719"><strong>IND vs SA, 1st ODI prediction: Who will win series opener between KL Rahul-led India and South Africa?</strong></a></p>

<p>Speaking in the pre-match press conference about Kohli and his leadership, Rahul opined, "Team India has done some phenomenal things under Virat Kohli’s leadership. We won a series outside of India, which hasn’t been done before. We have gone to every country and won a series. He has done a lot of things right and he has already set a standard for all of us and for Team India."&nbsp;</p>

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<p>"It’s all about for us and as a team to build upon that. We have to take it forward, keep improving as individuals and try to stay as disciplined and determined as we can and go out there and enjoy our cricket. Every series gives us a different opportunity," the versatile batter added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-on-the-verge-of-surpassing-dravid-ganguly-in-elite-list-ahead-of-odi-series-against-south-africa-445691"><strong>Virat Kohli on the verge of surpassing Dravid, Ganguly in elite list ahead of ODI series against South Africa</strong></a></p>

<p>Rahul also mentioned Kohli's biggest quality as a leader and said, "When it comes to leadership, Virat has this amazing ability to get the best out of everybody. He pushed everybody and made us believe we can do special things and that’s something I’ve learnt from him and hopefully, I can do that with the team as well."</p>

<p>Under Kohli, India excelled particularly in the red-ball format; dominating at home, winning a Test series in Australia and ensuring an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the United Kingdom in 2021's incomplete five-match series. In the white-ball format, Kohli guided India to bilateral ODI series wins in Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, Sri Lanka and West Indies and the 2019 ODI World Cup semi-finals. In T20Is, Kohli-led India won bilateral series&nbsp;in SENA countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Currently, India is gearing up for the ODI series opener versus Temba Bavuma-led Proteas at Paarl. The second and penultimate ODI will also take place at the same venue before the series finale will be hosted at Newlands, Cape Town.</p>


KL Rahul will take charge of Team India in the upcoming three ODIs versus South Africa, which gets underway at Boland Park, Paarl on Wednesday (January 19). In Rohit Sharma's absence, Rahul will lead the side for the first time for a full series.

KL Rahul will take charge of Team India in the upcoming three ODIs versus South Africa, which gets underway at Boland Park, Paarl on Wednesday (January 19). In Rohit Sharma's absence, Rahul will lead the side for the first time for a full series. Thus, Rahul will have his fair share of challenges leading the Men in Blue, comprising many veteran players such as former captain Virat Kohli, Shikhar Dhawan, R Ashwin, etc. Ahead of the three ODIs, the 29-year-old Rahul lavished huge praise on Kohli's leadership, whose captaincy tenure ended altogether after quitting as the Test captain (on January 15). ALSO READ | IND vs SA, 1st ODI prediction: Who will win series opener between KL Rahul-led India and South Africa? Speaking in the pre-match press conference about Kohli and his leadership, Rahul opined, "Team India has done some phenomenal things under Virat Kohli’s leadership. We won a series outside of India, which hasn’t been done before. We have gone to every country and won a series. He has done a lot of things right and he has already set a standard for all of us and for Team India." × "It’s all about for us and as a team to build upon that. We have to take it forward, keep improving as individuals and try to stay as disciplined and determined as we can and go out there and enjoy our cricket. Every series gives us a different opportunity," the versatile batter added. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli on the verge of surpassing Dravid, Ganguly in elite list ahead of ODI series against South Africa Rahul also mentioned Kohli's biggest quality as a leader and said, "When it comes to leadership, Virat has this amazing ability to get the best out of everybody. He pushed everybody and made us believe we can do special things and that’s something I’ve learnt from him and hopefully, I can do that with the team as well." Under Kohli, India excelled particularly in the red-ball format; dominating at home, winning a Test series in Australia and ensuring an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the United Kingdom in 2021's incomplete five-match series. In the white-ball format, Kohli guided India to bilateral ODI series wins in Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, Sri Lanka and West Indies and the 2019 ODI World Cup semi-finals. In T20Is, Kohli-led India won bilateral series in SENA countries. Currently, India is gearing up for the ODI series opener versus Temba Bavuma-led Proteas at Paarl. The second and penultimate ODI will also take place at the same venue before the series finale will be hosted at Newlands, Cape Town.

He has already set a standard for India: Rahul speaks highly of former captain Kohli ahead of SA ODIs

<p>After Virat Kohli's surprising decision to step down as the Test captain of the Indian cricket team, the search for India's next Test skipper has begun. While limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma is favourite to take over as the leader of the red-ball team as well, not everyone is in favour of the move.</p>

<p>Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar believes Rohit is not an ideal successor to Kohli considering his excessive workload and fitness issues in recent times. Rohit has been dealing with injuries consistently over the last few years and had missed the recently-concluded Test series against South Africa due to a hamstring issue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He is also set to miss the entire upcoming three-match ODI series against the Proteas with KL Rahul leading India in his absence. Gavaskar feels India need to look at someone young and fit who can be available for selection at all times.</p>

<p>"The problem with Rohit is that he has fitness issues. So you need a player who remains fit and is available for all matches. If you remember, Sri Lanka's Angelo Mathews had the same issue with a hamstring. And with that, when you try to run fast or take a quick single, the injury resurfaces," Gavaskar said on Sports Tak as he explained why Rohit should not be made India's new Test skipper.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/yuvraj-singh-reacts-as-sunil-gavaskar-picks-rishabh-pant-to-replace-virat-kohli-as-indias-new-test-captain-445365">Yuvraj Singh reacts as Gavaskar picks Rishabh Pant to replace&nbsp;Kohli as India's new Test captain</a></p>

<p>"If that is to happen, you may be forced to name someone else captain. So it's better to pick a player who instead has external injuries. But with Rohit, this cycle of picking up regular injuries is why I am doubtful about him. This is why I feel that only a player who features in all formats should be made captain," he added.</p>

<p>Rohit is not the only contender for the India Test captain job as the likes of KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant are also in the fray. Rahul, who had replaced injured Rohit as the vice-captain during the South Africa Test series, had led India in the second Test after Kohli missed the game due to a back spasm.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/itll-be-an-honour-kl-rahul-on-potentially-taking-over-from-virat-kohli-as-indias-next-test-captain-445678">'It’ll be an honour': KL Rahul on potentially taking over from Virat Kohli as India's next Test captain</a></p>

<p>On Tuesday (January 18), during the pre-match press conference ahead of the upcoming ODI series against South Africa, Rahul was asked about potentially taking over as the new captain of the Test team. The star batter said it will be a huge honour to lead the national team in the longest format.</p>

<p>"It’ll be an honour if chosen to lead the team. It’s a very exciting prospect and I will try to lead to the best of my abilities. It will be a huge responsibility," said Rahul.</p>


After Virat Kohli's surprising decision to step down as the Test captain of the Indian cricket team, the search for India's next Test skipper has begun. While limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma is favourite to take over as the leader of the red-ball team as well, not everyone is in favour of the move.

After Virat Kohli's surprising decision to step down as the Test captain of the Indian cricket team, the search for India's next Test skipper has begun. While limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma is favourite to take over as the leader of the red-ball team as well, not everyone is in favour of the move. Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar believes Rohit is not an ideal successor to Kohli considering his excessive workload and fitness issues in recent times. Rohit has been dealing with injuries consistently over the last few years and had missed the recently-concluded Test series against South Africa due to a hamstring issue. He is also set to miss the entire upcoming three-match ODI series against the Proteas with KL Rahul leading India in his absence. Gavaskar feels India need to look at someone young and fit who can be available for selection at all times. "The problem with Rohit is that he has fitness issues. So you need a player who remains fit and is available for all matches. If you remember, Sri Lanka's Angelo Mathews had the same issue with a hamstring. And with that, when you try to run fast or take a quick single, the injury resurfaces," Gavaskar said on Sports Tak as he explained why Rohit should not be made India's new Test skipper. Also Read: Yuvraj Singh reacts as Gavaskar picks Rishabh Pant to replace Kohli as India's new Test captain "If that is to happen, you may be forced to name someone else captain. So it's better to pick a player who instead has external injuries. But with Rohit, this cycle of picking up regular injuries is why I am doubtful about him. This is why I feel that only a player who features in all formats should be made captain," he added. Rohit is not the only contender for the India Test captain job as the likes of KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant are also in the fray. Rahul, who had replaced injured Rohit as the vice-captain during the South Africa Test series, had led India in the second Test after Kohli missed the game due to a back spasm. Also Read: 'It’ll be an honour': KL Rahul on potentially taking over from Virat Kohli as India's next Test captain On Tuesday (January 18), during the pre-match press conference ahead of the upcoming ODI series against South Africa, Rahul was asked about potentially taking over as the new captain of the Test team. The star batter said it will be a huge honour to lead the national team in the longest format. "It’ll be an honour if chosen to lead the team. It’s a very exciting prospect and I will try to lead to the best of my abilities. It will be a huge responsibility," said Rahul.

Sunil Gavaskar explains why India should not appoint Rohit Sharma as next Test captain after Virat Kohli

<p>Virat Kohli shocked the entire cricketing world after dropping the captaincy bomb on social media last week. He confirmed that he will no more be leading India in Tests and will now continue playing as only a batter in all three formats of the game for the Men in Blue. Kohli will be looking to make the most of the upcoming ODI series against South Africa, which will be his first international assignment after giving up captaincy across all formats.</p>

<p>All eyes will be on Kohli the batter when India will lock horns with the Proteas in the series-opener of the three-match ODI series at the Boland Park in Paarl on Thursday (January 19). The batting maestro will be looking to achieve a few milestones in the upcoming ODI series against the Proteas in their own backyard and is on the verge of surpassing Sourav Ganguly and Rahul Dravid in an elite list.</p>

<p>Kohli currently has 1287 runs in ODIs against South Africa and will be just a few runs away from surpassing both Dravid and Ganguly in the elite list of Indian batters with the most runs against the Proteas in ODIs when he walks out to bat in the 1st ODI in Paarl on Wednesday.</p>

<p>BCCI president Sourav Ganguly (1313 runs) and current India head coach Rahul Dravid (1309 runs) are currently placed second and third&nbsp;respectively in the elite list of highest run-getters for India in ODIs against South Africa. Kohli needs just 27 runs to surpass the two greats and go second only behind Sachin Tendulkar.</p>

<p>Tendulkar is leading the elite list with 2001 runs in 57 ODIs against South Africa. Sachin is also the leading run-getter against South Africa overall and is followed by former Australia captain Ricky Ponting (1879 runs) at the second spot. Kohli is 8th on the overall list.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/itll-be-an-honour-kl-rahul-on-potentially-taking-over-from-virat-kohli-as-indias-next-test-captain-445678">&nbsp;'It’ll be an honour': KL Rahul on potentially taking over from Virat Kohli as India's next Test captain</a></p>

<h3><strong>Virat Kohli has a sublime record against South Africa:</strong></h3>

<p>Kohli has an exceptional record against South Africa in ODIs with his 1287 runs in just 27 matches at a stunning average of 64.35 including four centuries and six fifties. He also has a brilliant strike rate of 86.90 against the Proteas in ODIs so far in his career.</p>

<p>With the burden of captaincy off his shoulders now, Kohli will be hopeful of making an impact as a batter and returning to his old form. The former India skipper will be also hoping to bring an end to his long-standing century drought during the ODI series against South Africa.</p>

<h3>&nbsp;</h3>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Virat Kohli shocked the entire cricketing world after dropping the captaincy bomb on social media last week. He confirmed that he will no more be leading India in Tests and will now continue playing as only a batter in all three formats of the game for the Men in Blue.

Virat Kohli shocked the entire cricketing world after dropping the captaincy bomb on social media last week. He confirmed that he will no more be leading India in Tests and will now continue playing as only a batter in all three formats of the game for the Men in Blue. Kohli will be looking to make the most of the upcoming ODI series against South Africa, which will be his first international assignment after giving up captaincy across all formats. All eyes will be on Kohli the batter when India will lock horns with the Proteas in the series-opener of the three-match ODI series at the Boland Park in Paarl on Thursday (January 19). The batting maestro will be looking to achieve a few milestones in the upcoming ODI series against the Proteas in their own backyard and is on the verge of surpassing Sourav Ganguly and Rahul Dravid in an elite list. Kohli currently has 1287 runs in ODIs against South Africa and will be just a few runs away from surpassing both Dravid and Ganguly in the elite list of Indian batters with the most runs against the Proteas in ODIs when he walks out to bat in the 1st ODI in Paarl on Wednesday. BCCI president Sourav Ganguly (1313 runs) and current India head coach Rahul Dravid (1309 runs) are currently placed second and third respectively in the elite list of highest run-getters for India in ODIs against South Africa. Kohli needs just 27 runs to surpass the two greats and go second only behind Sachin Tendulkar. Tendulkar is leading the elite list with 2001 runs in 57 ODIs against South Africa. Sachin is also the leading run-getter against South Africa overall and is followed by former Australia captain Ricky Ponting (1879 runs) at the second spot. Kohli is 8th on the overall list. Also Read: 'It’ll be an honour': KL Rahul on potentially taking over from Virat Kohli as India's next Test captain Virat Kohli has a sublime record against South Africa: Kohli has an exceptional record against South Africa in ODIs with his 1287 runs in just 27 matches at a stunning average of 64.35 including four centuries and six fifties. He also has a brilliant strike rate of 86.90 against the Proteas in ODIs so far in his career. With the burden of captaincy off his shoulders now, Kohli will be hopeful of making an impact as a batter and returning to his old form. The former India skipper will be also hoping to bring an end to his long-standing century drought during the ODI series against South Africa.

Virat Kohli on the verge of surpassing Dravid, Ganguly in elite list ahead of ODI series against South Africa

<p>Star India batter KL Rahul said it will be an honour for him to lead the Indian team in Tests if given a chance. Rahul was India's vice-captain in the recently-concluded Test series against South Africa in the absence of Rohit Sharma. He was Virat Kohli's deputy in the three-match series which India lost 2-1 after losing the final two matches in a row.</p>

<p>Following the series loss, Kohli took to social media last week to announce that he will be stepping down as the Test captain of the Indian team. The announcement left the entire Indian cricket fraternity in shock leading to speculations on who should take over from Kohli as the new captain of the national side in the longest format.</p>

<p>While limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma remains a favourite to take over in Tests as well, the likes of Rahul and Rishabh Pant are also strong contenders for the top job. Rahul, who will be leading India in the upcoming three-match ODI series against South Africa in the absence of Rohit, was on Tuesday (January 18) asked about leading the Test team after Kohli's exit.</p>

<p>Responding to a reporter's query on the prospects of leading in Tests, Rahul said it will be an honour for him and that it will be a huge responsibility as well. "It’ll be an honour if chosen to lead the team. It’s a very exciting prospect and I will try to lead to the best of my abilities. It will be a huge responsibility,” said Rahul in the virtual press conference ahead of the first ODI against South Africa.</p>

<p>Rahul, who is India's designated vice-captain in white-ball cricket, had replaced an injured Rohit as Kohli's deputy in Tests in the recently-concluded Test series. He also led India in the second Test against the Proteas after Kohli was ruled out due to a back spasm.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lucknow-ipl-franchise-set-to-rope-in-kl-rahul-marcus-stoinis-ravi-bishnoi-ahead-of-mega-auction-report-445669">Lucknow IPL franchise set to rope in KL Rahul,&nbsp;Stoinis and&nbsp;Bishnoi ahead of mega auction - Report</a></p>

<p>With Rohit ruled out of the ODIs as well, Rahul will be leading the team in the upcoming ODI series against the Proteas. He has led Punjab Kings for two seasons in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and is being seen as one of the future leaders in Indian cricket.</p>

<p>After losing the Test series 2-1, Rahul will be looking to inspire India to bounce back and clinch the ODI series against South Africa in their own backyard. The first ODI will be played in Boland Park in Paarl on Wednesday.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Star India batter KL Rahul said it will be an honour for him to lead the Indian team in Tests if given a chance. Rahul was India's vice-captain in the recently-concluded Test series against South Africa in the absence of Rohit Sharma.

Star India batter KL Rahul said it will be an honour for him to lead the Indian team in Tests if given a chance. Rahul was India's vice-captain in the recently-concluded Test series against South Africa in the absence of Rohit Sharma. He was Virat Kohli's deputy in the three-match series which India lost 2-1 after losing the final two matches in a row. Following the series loss, Kohli took to social media last week to announce that he will be stepping down as the Test captain of the Indian team. The announcement left the entire Indian cricket fraternity in shock leading to speculations on who should take over from Kohli as the new captain of the national side in the longest format. While limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma remains a favourite to take over in Tests as well, the likes of Rahul and Rishabh Pant are also strong contenders for the top job. Rahul, who will be leading India in the upcoming three-match ODI series against South Africa in the absence of Rohit, was on Tuesday (January 18) asked about leading the Test team after Kohli's exit. Responding to a reporter's query on the prospects of leading in Tests, Rahul said it will be an honour for him and that it will be a huge responsibility as well. "It’ll be an honour if chosen to lead the team. It’s a very exciting prospect and I will try to lead to the best of my abilities. It will be a huge responsibility,” said Rahul in the virtual press conference ahead of the first ODI against South Africa. Rahul, who is India's designated vice-captain in white-ball cricket, had replaced an injured Rohit as Kohli's deputy in Tests in the recently-concluded Test series. He also led India in the second Test against the Proteas after Kohli was ruled out due to a back spasm. Also Read: Lucknow IPL franchise set to rope in KL Rahul, Stoinis and Bishnoi ahead of mega auction - Report With Rohit ruled out of the ODIs as well, Rahul will be leading the team in the upcoming ODI series against the Proteas. He has led Punjab Kings for two seasons in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and is being seen as one of the future leaders in Indian cricket. After losing the Test series 2-1, Rahul will be looking to inspire India to bounce back and clinch the ODI series against South Africa in their own backyard. The first ODI will be played in Boland Park in Paarl on Wednesday.

'It’ll be an honour': KL Rahul on potentially taking over from Virat Kohli as India's next Test captain

<p>Virat Kohli, on January 15, announced his decision to step aside as the Indian Test captain. The 33-year-old stunned one and all with his sudden decision, which came only a day after India's three-match Test series loss to hosts Dean Elgar-led South Africa.</p>

<p>Kohli tweeted saying, "Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test captain of India, it’s now. It’s been 7 years of hard work, toil and relentless perseverance every day to take the team in the right direction. I’ve done the job with absolute honesty and left nothing out there. Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test Captain of India, it’s now."</p>

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<p>Kohli's decision shocked the entire cricketing fraternity. Under him, India rose to the No. 1 rankings and ended at the top spot for five consecutive years in ICC's rankings after annual updates. Kohli led India to their maiden Test series win on Australian soil, an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom, plenty of wins at home and the final of the inaugural ICC WTC cycle.</p>

<p>As many former cricketers and experts of the game have reacted to Kohli's latest revelation, former Pakistan captain and all-rounder Shahid Afridi also joined the bandwagon.</p>

<p>"It's fine in my opinion. Virat has played enough cricket and led the team well. And I believe this is the correct decision. There comes a stage where you can't handle pressure, and because of it, your own performances get affected. So, I think he has captained for a long time and at a great level. As a batsman, it's time he enjoys his cricket," Afridi said on the show ‘Game Set Match’ on&nbsp;<em>Samaa</em></p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-not-here-to-give-a-judgment-jasprit-bumrah-reacts-to-virat-kohli-quitting-as-test-captain-445472"><strong>I am not here to give a judgment: Jasprit Bumrah reacts to Virat Kohli quitting as Test captain</strong></a></p>

<p>Kohli had already stepped aside as the T20I captain, post the World Cup in the UAE last year, and was removed as the ODI captain in late 2021. He will now shift his focus to return to his very best as a batter -- having not scored an international ton since late 2019 -- in India's upcoming assignments.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Currently, KL Rahul-led India are gearing up for the three ODIs versus South Africa, in the African nation, which gets underway on January 19 at Paarl. Limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma has been ruled out due to hamstring injury.</p>


Virat Kohli, on January 15, announced his decision to step aside as the Indian Test captain. The 33-year-old stunned one and all with his sudden decision, which came only a day after India's three-match Test series loss to hosts Dean Elgar-led South Africa.

Virat Kohli, on January 15, announced his decision to step aside as the Indian Test captain. The 33-year-old stunned one and all with his sudden decision, which came only a day after India's three-match Test series loss to hosts Dean Elgar-led South Africa. Kohli tweeted saying, "Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test captain of India, it’s now. It’s been 7 years of hard work, toil and relentless perseverance every day to take the team in the right direction. I’ve done the job with absolute honesty and left nothing out there. Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test Captain of India, it’s now." 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/huBL6zZ7fZ — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) January 15, 2022 × ALSO READ | You will always be my captain, King: Siraj gets emotional, shares heartfelt post for 'superhero' Virat Kohli × Kohli's decision shocked the entire cricketing fraternity. Under him, India rose to the No. 1 rankings and ended at the top spot for five consecutive years in ICC's rankings after annual updates. Kohli led India to their maiden Test series win on Australian soil, an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom, plenty of wins at home and the final of the inaugural ICC WTC cycle. As many former cricketers and experts of the game have reacted to Kohli's latest revelation, former Pakistan captain and all-rounder Shahid Afridi also joined the bandwagon. "It's fine in my opinion. Virat has played enough cricket and led the team well. And I believe this is the correct decision. There comes a stage where you can't handle pressure, and because of it, your own performances get affected. So, I think he has captained for a long time and at a great level. As a batsman, it's time he enjoys his cricket," Afridi said on the show ‘Game Set Match’ on Samaa ALSO READ | I am not here to give a judgment: Jasprit Bumrah reacts to Virat Kohli quitting as Test captain Kohli had already stepped aside as the T20I captain, post the World Cup in the UAE last year, and was removed as the ODI captain in late 2021. He will now shift his focus to return to his very best as a batter -- having not scored an international ton since late 2019 -- in India's upcoming assignments. Currently, KL Rahul-led India are gearing up for the three ODIs versus South Africa, in the African nation, which gets underway on January 19 at Paarl. Limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma has been ruled out due to hamstring injury.

'There comes a stage where you can't...': Afridi opines on Virat Kohli's decision to quit Test captaincy

<p>In the past few months, a lot has changed in Indian cricket -- especially in the senior men's team. Virat Kohli announced, in mid-September 2021, that the T20 World Cup will be his last assignment as skipper in the shortest format. In early December, he was sacked as the ODI captain as the national selectors wanted a single captain for the white-ball formats.</p>

<p>On January 15 2022, a day after India's three-match Test series loss to hosts Dean Elgar-led South Africa, Kohli announced that he is stepping down as the red-ball captain as well. He tweeted saying, "Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test captain of India, it’s now. It’s been 7 years of hard work, toil and relentless perseverance every day to take the team in the right direction. I’ve done the job with absolute honesty and left nothing out there. Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test Captain of India, it’s now."</p>

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<p>Since then, several former cricketers, experts of the game and his current teammates have wished Kohli all the best for his future -- as he will now represent India solely as a player in all formats -- and lauded his overall leadership tenure.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/irrespective-of-what-kohli-says-or-what-ganguly-tweets-its-battle-of-two-stalwarts-says-ex-pakistan-captain-445521"><strong>Irrespective of what Kohli says or what Ganguly tweets, it's battle of two stalwarts, says ex-Pakistan captain</strong></a></p>

<p>Taking to Instagram, pacer Mohammed Siraj also shared a heartfelt post for outgoing skipper Kohli. Under Kohli, Siraj has improved leaps and bounds by climbing up the ladder and honing his skills across formats. It is to be noted that Kohli has captained Siraj in the IPL as well, till the 2021 edition, for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Siraj&nbsp;wrote,<em>&nbsp;"To my superhero, I cannot be thankful enough for the support and the encouragement that I got from you. You have always been my great brother. Thank you for trusting me and believing in me for all these years. For seeing the great at my worst. You will be always be my captain King Kohli."</em></p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CY17R6drRWg/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Mohammed Siraj (@mohammedsirajofficial)</a></p>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-not-here-to-give-a-judgment-jasprit-bumrah-reacts-to-virat-kohli-quitting-as-test-captain-445472"><strong>I am not here to give a judgment: Jasprit Bumrah reacts to Virat Kohli quitting as Test captain</strong></a></p>

<p>Coming to captaincy, Rohit Sharma has already succeeded Kohli as the limited-overs captain and is touted to be his successor in the red-ball format as well. The other candidates in the frame are KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For now, India are gearing up for the three-match ODI series, in the rainbow nation, which gets underway on January 19 at Paarl. Rahul will lead the Kohli-starrer Team India with Rohit ruled out due to hamstring injury.</p>


In the past few months, a lot has changed in Indian cricket -- especially in the senior men's team. Virat Kohli announced, in mid-September 2021, that the T20 World Cup will be his last assignment as skipper in the shortest format.

In the past few months, a lot has changed in Indian cricket -- especially in the senior men's team. Virat Kohli announced, in mid-September 2021, that the T20 World Cup will be his last assignment as skipper in the shortest format. In early December, he was sacked as the ODI captain as the national selectors wanted a single captain for the white-ball formats. On January 15 2022, a day after India's three-match Test series loss to hosts Dean Elgar-led South Africa, Kohli announced that he is stepping down as the red-ball captain as well. He tweeted saying, "Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test captain of India, it’s now. It’s been 7 years of hard work, toil and relentless perseverance every day to take the team in the right direction. I’ve done the job with absolute honesty and left nothing out there. Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test Captain of India, it’s now." 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/huBL6zZ7fZ — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) January 15, 2022 × Since then, several former cricketers, experts of the game and his current teammates have wished Kohli all the best for his future -- as he will now represent India solely as a player in all formats -- and lauded his overall leadership tenure. ALSO READ | Irrespective of what Kohli says or what Ganguly tweets, it's battle of two stalwarts, says ex-Pakistan captain Taking to Instagram, pacer Mohammed Siraj also shared a heartfelt post for outgoing skipper Kohli. Under Kohli, Siraj has improved leaps and bounds by climbing up the ladder and honing his skills across formats. It is to be noted that Kohli has captained Siraj in the IPL as well, till the 2021 edition, for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Siraj wrote, "To my superhero, I cannot be thankful enough for the support and the encouragement that I got from you. You have always been my great brother. Thank you for trusting me and believing in me for all these years. For seeing the great at my worst. You will be always be my captain King Kohli." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mohammed Siraj (@mohammedsirajofficial) × ALSO READ | I am not here to give a judgment: Jasprit Bumrah reacts to Virat Kohli quitting as Test captain Coming to captaincy, Rohit Sharma has already succeeded Kohli as the limited-overs captain and is touted to be his successor in the red-ball format as well. The other candidates in the frame are KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant. For now, India are gearing up for the three-match ODI series, in the rainbow nation, which gets underway on January 19 at Paarl. Rahul will lead the Kohli-starrer Team India with Rohit ruled out due to hamstring injury.

You will always be my captain, King: Siraj gets emotional, shares heartfelt post for 'superhero' Virat Kohli

<p>Virat Kohli, on Saturday (January 15), dropped a bomb by stepping down as the Indian Test captain, a day after India's 2-1 series loss to Dean Elgar's South Africa in their ongoing tour of the African nation. Under Kohli, India became one of the most successful Test teams in the modern-era as the 33-year-old led the national side to 40 wins in 68 Tests.</p>

<p>Kohli tweeted saying, "Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test captain of India, it’s now. It’s been 7 years of hard work, toil and relentless perseverance every day to take the team in the right direction. I’ve done the job with absolute honesty and left nothing out there. Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test Captain of India, it’s now."</p>

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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-had-no-pressure-from-the-board-selectors-bcci-treasurer-reacts-to-kohli-leaving-test-captaincy-445254"><strong>Virat had no pressure from the board, selectors: BCCI treasurer reacts to Kohli leaving Test captaincy</strong></a></p>

<p>Kohli's resignation as Test captain came as a huge shocker to the cricketing fraternity given how much he loves to lead from the front in whites and the resounding success India has achieved under him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a report filed by&nbsp;<em>Hindustan Times,</em>&nbsp;it has been learned that Kohli was offered a farewell Test as captain by the Sourav Ganguly-led Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) official. As per the report, the board official had come up with an offer for Kohli to have a farewell Test as skipper along with a gala in Bengaluru (where the forthcoming home series opener versus Sri Lanka will be held next month) during his telephonic conversation. "One match makes no difference. That’s not how I am,” Kohli is reportedly known to have said in his reply.&nbsp;For the unversed, Kohli's next Test will also be his 100th match in whites, in Bengaluru.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-wants-to-make-himself-unsackable-manjrekar-on-kohlis-shocking-decision-to-resign-as-test-captain-445199"><strong>'He wants to make himself unsackable': Manjrekar on Kohli's shocking decision to resign as Test captain</strong></a></p>

<p>In the last four months, Kohli has freed himself from captaincy duties for Team India. While he announced his decision to resign as T20I captain prior to the World Cup, mid-September, he was removed from ODI captaincy before the SA tour whereas he left the top post in Tests on Saturday. Amid all this, Kohli's relation with the board has also gone down considerably; which could have been a factor in quitting captaincy altogether.</p>


Virat Kohli, on Saturday (January 15), dropped a bomb by stepping down as the Indian Test captain, a day after India's 2-1 series loss to Dean Elgar's South Africa in their ongoing tour of the African nation.

Virat Kohli, on Saturday (January 15), dropped a bomb by stepping down as the Indian Test captain, a day after India's 2-1 series loss to Dean Elgar's South Africa in their ongoing tour of the African nation. Under Kohli, India became one of the most successful Test teams in the modern-era as the 33-year-old led the national side to 40 wins in 68 Tests. Kohli tweeted saying, "Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test captain of India, it’s now. It’s been 7 years of hard work, toil and relentless perseverance every day to take the team in the right direction. I’ve done the job with absolute honesty and left nothing out there. Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test Captain of India, it’s now." 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/huBL6zZ7fZ — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) January 15, 2022 × ALSO READ | Virat had no pressure from the board, selectors: BCCI treasurer reacts to Kohli leaving Test captaincy Kohli's resignation as Test captain came as a huge shocker to the cricketing fraternity given how much he loves to lead from the front in whites and the resounding success India has achieved under him. According to a report filed by Hindustan Times, it has been learned that Kohli was offered a farewell Test as captain by the Sourav Ganguly-led Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) official. As per the report, the board official had come up with an offer for Kohli to have a farewell Test as skipper along with a gala in Bengaluru (where the forthcoming home series opener versus Sri Lanka will be held next month) during his telephonic conversation. "One match makes no difference. That’s not how I am,” Kohli is reportedly known to have said in his reply. For the unversed, Kohli's next Test will also be his 100th match in whites, in Bengaluru. ALSO READ | 'He wants to make himself unsackable': Manjrekar on Kohli's shocking decision to resign as Test captain In the last four months, Kohli has freed himself from captaincy duties for Team India. While he announced his decision to resign as T20I captain prior to the World Cup, mid-September, he was removed from ODI captaincy before the SA tour whereas he left the top post in Tests on Saturday. Amid all this, Kohli's relation with the board has also gone down considerably; which could have been a factor in quitting captaincy altogether.

'One match makes...': Virat Kohli turned down BCCI's offer to play farewell Test as captain - Report

Adelaide to Johannesburg: India's five best Test wins under Virat Kohli's captaincy

<p>A lot has changed in Indian cricket in the past few months. Virat Kohli stepped down as the Test captain on Saturday (January 15), after resigning from the post in T20Is -- announcing his decision prior to the World Cup -- and being sacked as the ODI skipper.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the forthcoming India-South Africa ODIs, in the African nation, KL Rahul will lead the Men in Blue with Kohli in the line-up, sans limited-overs skipper Rohit Sharma (out due to hamstring injury). On the other hand, the series will also see Jasprit Bumrah don the vice-captain's hat. Earlier in the SA tour, Bumrah had filled in as vice-captain for the second and penultimate Test, at The Wanderers, Johannesburg, with regular captain Kohli being injured.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Ahead of the three ODIs, Bumrah opened up on the prospect of leading Team India in the future, given the Test captaincy spot is now vacant following Kohli's resignation.</p>

<p>Speaking in a pre-match&nbsp;press conference ahead of the the three-match ODI series opener, at Paarl, the 28-year-old Bumrah opined that he can&nbsp;captain the side if given an opportunity. However, the speedster's focus is always to look for ways where he can contribute and do his work as a bowler.</p>

<p>"For me, I am ready to contribute in whatever position and way I can. If given an opportunity to lead India, you will think about it. It is not something that I like to chase, I like to do my work, however, I can do the job. Me having a post or not does not really matter. That has always been my process and what I look to do. If given an opportunity, there is a no bigger honour than this but yeah, I try to focus on how I can contribute," the pacer&nbsp;said.</p>

<p>He further stressed, "For me, the role does not change at all. I have to do my job and I will be helping KL Rahul as much as I can whenever he needs assistance. Even when I am not the vice-captain, I try to help the younger guys and I have a lot of discussions with them regarding having a particular field."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Bumrah concluded by saying, "You always want the responsibility. If there is no responsibility or pressure, you would not enjoy the game. I try to manage the responsibility and contribute to the side's cause. I am a keen learner, when I came into the team, I always asked questions. I try to help out the youngsters and eradicate their doubts. Sometimes I also end up learning from them."</p>

<p>The national selectors will have a tough task to name the next Test captain in the coming few weeks. India's next Test series is at home, versus Sri Lanka. For now, they are gearing up for the three ODIs versus Temba Bavuma &amp; Co. after losing the Tests 2-1.</p>


A lot has changed in Indian cricket in the past few months. Virat Kohli stepped down as the Test captain on Saturday (January 15), after resigning from the post in T20Is -- announcing his decision prior to the World Cup -- and being sacked as the ODI skipper.

A lot has changed in Indian cricket in the past few months. Virat Kohli stepped down as the Test captain on Saturday (January 15), after resigning from the post in T20Is -- announcing his decision prior to the World Cup -- and being sacked as the ODI skipper. In the forthcoming India-South Africa ODIs, in the African nation, KL Rahul will lead the Men in Blue with Kohli in the line-up, sans limited-overs skipper Rohit Sharma (out due to hamstring injury). On the other hand, the series will also see Jasprit Bumrah don the vice-captain's hat. Earlier in the SA tour, Bumrah had filled in as vice-captain for the second and penultimate Test, at The Wanderers, Johannesburg, with regular captain Kohli being injured. ALSO READ | Ahead of the three ODIs, Bumrah opened up on the prospect of leading Team India in the future, given the Test captaincy spot is now vacant following Kohli's resignation. Speaking in a pre-match press conference ahead of the the three-match ODI series opener, at Paarl, the 28-year-old Bumrah opined that he can captain the side if given an opportunity. However, the speedster's focus is always to look for ways where he can contribute and do his work as a bowler. "For me, I am ready to contribute in whatever position and way I can. If given an opportunity to lead India, you will think about it. It is not something that I like to chase, I like to do my work, however, I can do the job. Me having a post or not does not really matter. That has always been my process and what I look to do. If given an opportunity, there is a no bigger honour than this but yeah, I try to focus on how I can contribute," the pacer said. He further stressed, "For me, the role does not change at all. I have to do my job and I will be helping KL Rahul as much as I can whenever he needs assistance. Even when I am not the vice-captain, I try to help the younger guys and I have a lot of discussions with them regarding having a particular field." ALSO READ | Bumrah concluded by saying, "You always want the responsibility. If there is no responsibility or pressure, you would not enjoy the game. I try to manage the responsibility and contribute to the side's cause. I am a keen learner, when I came into the team, I always asked questions. I try to help out the youngsters and eradicate their doubts. Sometimes I also end up learning from them." The national selectors will have a tough task to name the next Test captain in the coming few weeks. India's next Test series is at home, versus Sri Lanka. For now, they are gearing up for the three ODIs versus Temba Bavuma & Co. after losing the Tests 2-1.

'If given an opportunity to lead India.....' - Jasprit Bumrah opines on prospect of leading Team India

<p>Former Indian opener-turned-social media sensation Wasim Jaffer has lauded Virat Kohli after the latter dropped a bomb recently by stepping down as the Test captain. Kohli took to his official Twitter handle to share the news with one and all, a day after India's 2-1 series loss to Dean Elgar-led South Africa.</p>

<p>Kohli tweeted saying, "Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test captain of India, it’s now. It’s been 7 years of hard work, toil and relentless perseverance every day to take the team in the right direction. I’ve done the job with absolute honesty and left nothing out there. Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test Captain of India, it’s now."</p>

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— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1482340422987169794?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-might-be-feeling-suffocated-former-indian-wicketkeeper-reacts-to-virat-kohli-quitting-as-test-captain-445423"><strong>He might be feeling suffocated: Former Indian wicketkeeper reacts to Virat Kohli quitting as Test captain</strong></a></p>

<p>Speaking on his YouTube channel, Jaffer opened up on Kohli's decision, hailed him for being an exceptional leader in whites and said, "The way he has led India in all three formats has been commendable. Even though we keep saying that he hasn't won a ICC trophy, other than that he has a great record as a leader, whether it's at home where he hasn't lost any series as a captain, he lost only two Test matches. Away from home he has got tremendous success.</p>

<p>“As a white-ball captain, he won T20 trophies in New Zealand, South Africa and Australia. Beating Australia in Australia was the icing on the cake for him as a leader. I think no sub-continent team has gone to Australia and beaten Australia. It was probably the highest point as a captain,” Jaffer added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/one-match-makes-virat-kohli-turned-down-bccis-offer-to-play-farewell-test-as-captain-report-445316"><strong>'One match makes...': Virat Kohli turned down BCCI's offer to play farewell Test as captain - Report</strong></a></p>

<p>Jaffer further went onto mention the one quality brought forward by Kohli during his tenure as the Test captain, from 2014-2021. "The kind of culture he has brought to the Indian team and the fast-bowling firepower that India has become under him is tremendous, something which India never had.</p>

<p>"Now we've got such a high quality bowling attack and I think India has definitely got one of the best bowling attacks going around whether it's seaming conditions or spinning conditions," the 43-year old further said.</p>

<p>Kohli took over from MS Dhoni as the Test captain when the national side occupied the seventh position in ICC Test Rankings. At the time of his resignation, India are the No. 1 side and ended at the top spot for five consecutive years during annual updates of ICC rankings. Under Kohli, India won 40 Tests in 68 matches, winning three games in England, two series on the trot in Australia (one under Ajinkya Rahane), two Tests in South Africa.</p>

<p>Jaffer also suggested that Hitman Rohit should now take over from Kohli whereas named three candidates who can be groomed under him. "Rohit Sharma I feel will be the obvious choice right now for him to lead in all three formats but selectors in a year or two years time look for replacement. Or look for somebody to groom and the obvious name that comes to mind is Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul. And I would also take the name of Shreyas Iyer because I think these three guys have the potential to be Indian captain for the future,” he said.</p>


Former Indian opener-turned-social media sensation Wasim Jaffer has lauded Virat Kohli after the latter dropped a bomb recently by stepping down as the Test captain.

Former Indian opener-turned-social media sensation Wasim Jaffer has lauded Virat Kohli after the latter dropped a bomb recently by stepping down as the Test captain. Kohli took to his official Twitter handle to share the news with one and all, a day after India's 2-1 series loss to Dean Elgar-led South Africa. Kohli tweeted saying, "Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test captain of India, it’s now. It’s been 7 years of hard work, toil and relentless perseverance every day to take the team in the right direction. I’ve done the job with absolute honesty and left nothing out there. Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test Captain of India, it’s now." 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/huBL6zZ7fZ — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) January 15, 2022 × ALSO READ | He might be feeling suffocated: Former Indian wicketkeeper reacts to Virat Kohli quitting as Test captain Speaking on his YouTube channel, Jaffer opened up on Kohli's decision, hailed him for being an exceptional leader in whites and said, "The way he has led India in all three formats has been commendable. Even though we keep saying that he hasn't won a ICC trophy, other than that he has a great record as a leader, whether it's at home where he hasn't lost any series as a captain, he lost only two Test matches. Away from home he has got tremendous success. “As a white-ball captain, he won T20 trophies in New Zealand, South Africa and Australia. Beating Australia in Australia was the icing on the cake for him as a leader. I think no sub-continent team has gone to Australia and beaten Australia. It was probably the highest point as a captain,” Jaffer added. ALSO READ | 'One match makes...': Virat Kohli turned down BCCI's offer to play farewell Test as captain - Report Jaffer further went onto mention the one quality brought forward by Kohli during his tenure as the Test captain, from 2014-2021. "The kind of culture he has brought to the Indian team and the fast-bowling firepower that India has become under him is tremendous, something which India never had. "Now we've got such a high quality bowling attack and I think India has definitely got one of the best bowling attacks going around whether it's seaming conditions or spinning conditions," the 43-year old further said. Kohli took over from MS Dhoni as the Test captain when the national side occupied the seventh position in ICC Test Rankings. At the time of his resignation, India are the No. 1 side and ended at the top spot for five consecutive years during annual updates of ICC rankings. Under Kohli, India won 40 Tests in 68 matches, winning three games in England, two series on the trot in Australia (one under Ajinkya Rahane), two Tests in South Africa. Jaffer also suggested that Hitman Rohit should now take over from Kohli whereas named three candidates who can be groomed under him. "Rohit Sharma I feel will be the obvious choice right now for him to lead in all three formats but selectors in a year or two years time look for replacement. Or look for somebody to groom and the obvious name that comes to mind is Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul. And I would also take the name of Shreyas Iyer because I think these three guys have the potential to be Indian captain for the future,” he said.

Jaffer mentions quality Kohli developed 'which India never had', suggests ideal candidates as his successor

<p>Former India captain and legendary all-rounder Kapil Dev has backed Virat Kohli over his decision to step down as the Test captain of the Indian cricket team. Kohli on Saturday (January 15) confirmed that he will not be leading India in Tests going forward after the team's 2-1 defeat in the recently-concluded Test series against South Africa.</p>

<p>Kapil, who led India to its first-ever World Cup triumph in 1983, believes Kohli did the right thing by giving up captaincy as he appeared to be under pressure ever since leaving T20I captaincy last year. Ahead of the T20 World Cup 2021 last year, Kohli had confirmed he will be stepping down as India's T20I captain post the showpiece event.</p>

<p>However, Kohli had expressed his desire to continue leading the team in both ODIs and Tests. In a controversial turn of events, he was removed as the ODI captain of the team in December last year with Rohit Sharma taking over as India's new limited-overs captain as a huge controversy erupted. The move also led to a public fallout between Kohli and the BCCI.</p>

<p>"I welcome Virat’s decision to quit the Test captaincy. He was going through a rough time ever since he gave up the T20 captaincy. He has looked tense in recent times, appeared to be under a lot of pressure. So giving up the captaincy was an option in order to play freely. He opted for that," Kapil told Mid-Day while sharing his views on Kohli's decision.</p>

<p>"He is a mature man. I am sure he must have thought hard before taking this important decision. Maybe, he wasn’t enjoying the captaincy. We have to support him and wish him luck," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/yuvraj-singh-reacts-as-sunil-gavaskar-picks-rishabh-pant-to-replace-virat-kohli-as-indias-new-test-captain-">Yuvraj&nbsp;reacts as Gavaskar picks Rishabh Pant to replace Virat Kohli as India's new Test captain</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Virat Kohli should give up his ego: Kapil Dev&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>While Kapil backed Kohli's decision to step aside as the Test captain, he insisted the former Indian skipper should let go of his ego and play under a youngster for the larger good of the team. Citing his own example, Kapil said even he played under the likes of Sunil Gavaskar and Mohammad Azharuddin after leading India to a World Cup triumph in 1983.</p>

<p>"Even Sunil Gavaskar played under me. I played under K Srikkanth and Azharuddin. I had no ego. Virat will have to give up his ego and play under a young cricketer. This will help him and Indian cricket. Virat should guide the new captain, new players. We cannot lose Virat, the batsman…no way," Kapil concluded.</p>


Former India captain and legendary all-rounder Kapil Dev has backed Virat Kohli over his decision to step down as the Test captain of the Indian cricket team. Kohli on Saturday (January 15) confirmed that he will not be leading India in Tests going forward after the team's 2-1 defeat in the recently-concluded Test series against South Africa.

Former India captain and legendary all-rounder Kapil Dev has backed Virat Kohli over his decision to step down as the Test captain of the Indian cricket team. Kohli on Saturday (January 15) confirmed that he will not be leading India in Tests going forward after the team's 2-1 defeat in the recently-concluded Test series against South Africa. Kapil, who led India to its first-ever World Cup triumph in 1983, believes Kohli did the right thing by giving up captaincy as he appeared to be under pressure ever since leaving T20I captaincy last year. Ahead of the T20 World Cup 2021 last year, Kohli had confirmed he will be stepping down as India's T20I captain post the showpiece event. However, Kohli had expressed his desire to continue leading the team in both ODIs and Tests. In a controversial turn of events, he was removed as the ODI captain of the team in December last year with Rohit Sharma taking over as India's new limited-overs captain as a huge controversy erupted. The move also led to a public fallout between Kohli and the BCCI. "I welcome Virat’s decision to quit the Test captaincy. He was going through a rough time ever since he gave up the T20 captaincy. He has looked tense in recent times, appeared to be under a lot of pressure. So giving up the captaincy was an option in order to play freely. He opted for that," Kapil told Mid-Day while sharing his views on Kohli's decision. "He is a mature man. I am sure he must have thought hard before taking this important decision. Maybe, he wasn’t enjoying the captaincy. We have to support him and wish him luck," he added. Also Read: Yuvraj reacts as Gavaskar picks Rishabh Pant to replace Virat Kohli as India's new Test captain Virat Kohli should give up his ego: Kapil Dev While Kapil backed Kohli's decision to step aside as the Test captain, he insisted the former Indian skipper should let go of his ego and play under a youngster for the larger good of the team. Citing his own example, Kapil said even he played under the likes of Sunil Gavaskar and Mohammad Azharuddin after leading India to a World Cup triumph in 1983. "Even Sunil Gavaskar played under me. I played under K Srikkanth and Azharuddin. I had no ego. Virat will have to give up his ego and play under a young cricketer. This will help him and Indian cricket. Virat should guide the new captain, new players. We cannot lose Virat, the batsman…no way," Kapil concluded.

Virat Kohli will have to give up his ego and play under a youngster to help Indian team: Kapil Dev

<p>On Saturday (January 15), Virat Kohli dropped a bomb by announcing his decision to step aside as the Test captain of the Indian cricket team. Kohli's decision came following the three-match Test series loss to South Africa, in the rainbow nation, on Friday (January 14).</p>

<p>Kohli, thus, signed off as India's most successful Test captain -- leading the national side in 68 Tests, winning 40 of them. In mid-September 2021, the 33-year-old had announced that the T20 World Cup will be his last assignment as captain of the shortest format. In December, BCCI sacked him as the ODI captain before giving&nbsp;up the Test captaincy as well.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-was-not-worried-about-sanjay-manjrekar-lauds-rishabh-pant-for-unselfish-ton-vs-sa-in-3rd-test-445392">'He was not worried about....': Sanjay Manjrekar lauds Rishabh Pant for 'unselfish' ton vs SA in 3rd Test</a></strong></p>

<p>Talking on<em>&nbsp;India News</em>, former Indian wicketkeeper and national selector Saba Karim opined on Kohli's Test captaincy resignation and said, "It is very difficult to say what is the reason behind this. The picture we are getting to see in the last four-five months, it means the pressure was building on him. He might have been feeling suffocated because of which he might have ended his relationship with captaincy."</p>

<p>"Virat Kohli is a person who doesn't take a step back from fighting. I agree India lost the Test series in South Africa, where they were expected to win, but he is always ready for such challenges. It is the first time he has taken such a decision on his own," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/captaincy-is-not-anyones-birthright-gambhir-hopes-virat-kohli-can-be-at-his-dominant-best-in-sa-odis-445355"><strong>Captaincy is not anyone's birthright: Gambhir hopes Virat Kohli can be at his dominant best in SA ODIs</strong></a></p>

<p>Karim further expressed his concern with so many changes happening rapidly in Indian cricket. In this regard, he stated, "I didn't think so many changes will happen so soon. The first setback was when Kohli himself decided that he will not do the T20 captaincy. We had spoken about the timing that time as well that the World Cup was about to happen and the team had been selected, for Kohli to take such a decision was extremely astonishing."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The selectors then decided that Kohli will not remain the captain in ODI cricket as well. So too many changes have happened too quickly. The first change was initiated by Kohli himself but after that, the selectors have had a role in the change and in the end, again this personal decision from Kohli."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Indian cricket loyalists would be hoping for King Kohli to break his international century-drought at his earliest given he is now free from captaincy duties and can play freely. He will be seen in action in the forthcoming three ODIs versus Temba Bavuma-led Proteas, where the Men in Blue will be led by KL Rahul amid limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma's absence (due to hamstring injury).</p>

<p>The ODIs will commence on January 19 at Paarl.</p>


On Saturday (January 15), Virat Kohli dropped a bomb by announcing his decision to step aside as the Test captain of the Indian cricket team. Kohli's decision came following the three-match Test series loss to South Africa, in the rainbow nation, on Friday (January 14).

On Saturday (January 15), Virat Kohli dropped a bomb by announcing his decision to step aside as the Test captain of the Indian cricket team. Kohli's decision came following the three-match Test series loss to South Africa, in the rainbow nation, on Friday (January 14). Kohli, thus, signed off as India's most successful Test captain -- leading the national side in 68 Tests, winning 40 of them. In mid-September 2021, the 33-year-old had announced that the T20 World Cup will be his last assignment as captain of the shortest format. In December, BCCI sacked him as the ODI captain before giving up the Test captaincy as well. ALSO READ | 'He was not worried about....': Sanjay Manjrekar lauds Rishabh Pant for 'unselfish' ton vs SA in 3rd Test Talking on India News, former Indian wicketkeeper and national selector Saba Karim opined on Kohli's Test captaincy resignation and said, "It is very difficult to say what is the reason behind this. The picture we are getting to see in the last four-five months, it means the pressure was building on him. He might have been feeling suffocated because of which he might have ended his relationship with captaincy." "Virat Kohli is a person who doesn't take a step back from fighting. I agree India lost the Test series in South Africa, where they were expected to win, but he is always ready for such challenges. It is the first time he has taken such a decision on his own," he added. ALSO READ | Captaincy is not anyone's birthright: Gambhir hopes Virat Kohli can be at his dominant best in SA ODIs Karim further expressed his concern with so many changes happening rapidly in Indian cricket. In this regard, he stated, "I didn't think so many changes will happen so soon. The first setback was when Kohli himself decided that he will not do the T20 captaincy. We had spoken about the timing that time as well that the World Cup was about to happen and the team had been selected, for Kohli to take such a decision was extremely astonishing." "The selectors then decided that Kohli will not remain the captain in ODI cricket as well. So too many changes have happened too quickly. The first change was initiated by Kohli himself but after that, the selectors have had a role in the change and in the end, again this personal decision from Kohli." The Indian cricket loyalists would be hoping for King Kohli to break his international century-drought at his earliest given he is now free from captaincy duties and can play freely. He will be seen in action in the forthcoming three ODIs versus Temba Bavuma-led Proteas, where the Men in Blue will be led by KL Rahul amid limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma's absence (due to hamstring injury). The ODIs will commence on January 19 at Paarl.

He might be feeling suffocated: Former Indian wicketkeeper reacts to Virat Kohli quitting as Test captain

<p>Virat Kohli's shocking decision to leave India's Test captaincy has become the major talking point across the Indian cricket fraternity. Kohli announced his surprising decision on social media last week, confirming that his time as the captain of the Indian Test team had come to a halt and that he will not be leading the side anymore.</p>

<p>His announcement came a day after India's 2-1 defeat in the three-match series against South Africa. His decision to relinquish captaincy has led to an ever-rising debate over who should be India's new skipper in the longest format with several former cricketers and experts sharing their views.</p>

<p>Recently former India captain and batting legend Sunil Gavaskar backed Rishabh Pant as an ideal candidate to take over the top post. Former India opener and cricket expert Aakash Chopra has also given his take on the raging debate and picked three strong contenders who can replace Kohli as the leader of the Indian team in whites.</p>

<p>As per reports, limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma is likely to take over in all three formats and become India's new Test skipper. However, Chopra believes Rohit's recent injury issues raise serious questions about his fitness. Chopra suggested the Test captaincy burden might prove to be too much for the 34-year-old.</p>

<p>"Rohit Sharma seems to be the most obvious choice because he is the ODI and T20I captain at the moment and the last one year was a watershed event for him in Tests. But there are serious questions about his fitness because the hamstring is troubling him since 2020. In theory, it seems alright but will he be able to remain fit?," Chopra said in a video on his Youtube channel.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/yuvraj-singh-reacts-as-sunil-gavaskar-picks-rishsbh-pant-to-replace-virat-kohli-as-indias-new-test-captain-445365">Yuvraj reacts as&nbsp;Gavaskar picks&nbsp;Pant to replace Kohli as India's new Test captain</a></strong></p>

<p>However, Chopra insisted he would still back Rohit to take over as the new Test captain while also naming KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant as the other two contenders for the top job. Rahul served as India's designated vice-captain in the Test series against South Africa and also led the team in the second Test against the Proteas in Johannesburg. Both Rahul and Pant have led their respective IPL teams as well.</p>

<p>"My vote is for Rohit Sharma as of now, short-term. Second is KL Rahul - you can go with him. Rishabh Pant is the third, it is a slightly left-field or out-of-the-box selection, you can also look towards him," Chopra said.</p>

<p>With India scheduled to play Sri Lanka in a Test series at home next month, the BCCI and selectors are expected to announce the new captain of the Indian Test team soon.&nbsp;</p>


Virat Kohli's shocking decision to leave India's Test captaincy has become the major talking point across the Indian cricket fraternity. Kohli announced his surprising decision on social media last week, confirming that his time as the captain of the Indian Test team had come to a halt and that he will not be leading the side anymore.

Virat Kohli's shocking decision to leave India's Test captaincy has become the major talking point across the Indian cricket fraternity. Kohli announced his surprising decision on social media last week, confirming that his time as the captain of the Indian Test team had come to a halt and that he will not be leading the side anymore. His announcement came a day after India's 2-1 defeat in the three-match series against South Africa. His decision to relinquish captaincy has led to an ever-rising debate over who should be India's new skipper in the longest format with several former cricketers and experts sharing their views. Recently former India captain and batting legend Sunil Gavaskar backed Rishabh Pant as an ideal candidate to take over the top post. Former India opener and cricket expert Aakash Chopra has also given his take on the raging debate and picked three strong contenders who can replace Kohli as the leader of the Indian team in whites. As per reports, limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma is likely to take over in all three formats and become India's new Test skipper. However, Chopra believes Rohit's recent injury issues raise serious questions about his fitness. Chopra suggested the Test captaincy burden might prove to be too much for the 34-year-old. "Rohit Sharma seems to be the most obvious choice because he is the ODI and T20I captain at the moment and the last one year was a watershed event for him in Tests. But there are serious questions about his fitness because the hamstring is troubling him since 2020. In theory, it seems alright but will he be able to remain fit?," Chopra said in a video on his Youtube channel. Also Read: Yuvraj reacts as Gavaskar picks Pant to replace Kohli as India's new Test captain However, Chopra insisted he would still back Rohit to take over as the new Test captain while also naming KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant as the other two contenders for the top job. Rahul served as India's designated vice-captain in the Test series against South Africa and also led the team in the second Test against the Proteas in Johannesburg. Both Rahul and Pant have led their respective IPL teams as well. "My vote is for Rohit Sharma as of now, short-term. Second is KL Rahul - you can go with him. Rishabh Pant is the third, it is a slightly left-field or out-of-the-box selection, you can also look towards him," Chopra said. With India scheduled to play Sri Lanka in a Test series at home next month, the BCCI and selectors are expected to announce the new captain of the Indian Test team soon.

'Serious questions on Rohit Sharma's fitness': Ex-India cricketer picks 3 contenders to captain India in Tests

<p>Former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh recently gave his take on Sunil Gavaskar backing Rishabh Pant to take over as the new Test captain of the Indian cricket team after Virat Kohli. Kohli stepped down as the Test captain of the Indian team on Saturday (January 15) following the side's 2-1 defeat in the recently-concluded three-match Test series against South Africa.</p>

<p>Kohli-led India came close to winning their maiden Test series in South Africa when they got the better of the Proteas comfortably in the series-opener in Centurion. However, they lost the next two matches in a row to concede the series 2-1 and were denied a historic series win on South Africa soil.</p>

<p>A day after India's seven-wicket defeat in the third Test in Cape Town, Kohli dropped the captaincy bomb on social media and announced he will no more be leading the Indian team in the longest format. Following Kohli's resignation, the legendary Gavaskar suggested Pant could be an ideal candidate to take over as the new captain in Tests as he is a regular across all formats and has been consistent in the whites for Team India.</p>

<p>"If you ask me, I am still staying, I would look at Rishabh Pant as the next India captain,” Gavaskar had been quoted as saying by India Today. Reacting to the batting legend's comments, Yuvraj also echoed similar sentiments and backed Pant to replace Kohli as the new captain of the Indian Test side.</p>

<p>"Absolutely! Reads the game well behind the stumps," Yuvraj wrote in a tweet, extending his backing for Pant as the new leader in Tests for India.</p>

<p><img alt="yuvraj tweet" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0fe74a3b-fb5d-4955-b0b0-9ffe79a3dbed" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Yuvraj%20tweet.png" /></p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-rohit-or-rahul-sunil-gavaskar-names-player-who-should-replace-virat-kohli-as-indias-next-test-captain-445170">Not Rohit or Rahul! Gavaskar names player who should replace Virat Kohli as India's next Test captain</a></p>

<p>As per reports, Rohit Sharma is the leading contender to take over as the new captain of the Test team having already been appointed as the skipper in limited-over formats. KL Rahul is likely to be his deputy across all three formats as the Indian team prepares for a new era under head coach Rahul Dravid.</p>

<p>However, Kohli's legacy as captain in Tests will be hard to match for even the best of leaders considering what he achieved with the team. Kohli signed off as India's most successful Test captain with 40 wins in just 68 Test matches and is also the fourth most successful Test captain of all time.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh recently gave his take on Sunil Gavaskar backing Rishabh Pant to take over as the new Test captain of the Indian cricket team after Virat Kohli.

Former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh recently gave his take on Sunil Gavaskar backing Rishabh Pant to take over as the new Test captain of the Indian cricket team after Virat Kohli. Kohli stepped down as the Test captain of the Indian team on Saturday (January 15) following the side's 2-1 defeat in the recently-concluded three-match Test series against South Africa. Kohli-led India came close to winning their maiden Test series in South Africa when they got the better of the Proteas comfortably in the series-opener in Centurion. However, they lost the next two matches in a row to concede the series 2-1 and were denied a historic series win on South Africa soil. A day after India's seven-wicket defeat in the third Test in Cape Town, Kohli dropped the captaincy bomb on social media and announced he will no more be leading the Indian team in the longest format. Following Kohli's resignation, the legendary Gavaskar suggested Pant could be an ideal candidate to take over as the new captain in Tests as he is a regular across all formats and has been consistent in the whites for Team India. "If you ask me, I am still staying, I would look at Rishabh Pant as the next India captain,” Gavaskar had been quoted as saying by India Today. Reacting to the batting legend's comments, Yuvraj also echoed similar sentiments and backed Pant to replace Kohli as the new captain of the Indian Test side. "Absolutely! Reads the game well behind the stumps," Yuvraj wrote in a tweet, extending his backing for Pant as the new leader in Tests for India. Also Read: Not Rohit or Rahul! Gavaskar names player who should replace Virat Kohli as India's next Test captain As per reports, Rohit Sharma is the leading contender to take over as the new captain of the Test team having already been appointed as the skipper in limited-over formats. KL Rahul is likely to be his deputy across all three formats as the Indian team prepares for a new era under head coach Rahul Dravid. However, Kohli's legacy as captain in Tests will be hard to match for even the best of leaders considering what he achieved with the team. Kohli signed off as India's most successful Test captain with 40 wins in just 68 Test matches and is also the fourth most successful Test captain of all time.

Yuvraj Singh reacts as Sunil Gavaskar picks Rishabh Pant to replace Virat Kohli as India's new Test captain

<p>On Saturday (January 15), Virat Kohli dropped a bomb by announcing his decision to step aside as the Test captain. In mid-September 2021, Kohli had revealed that the T20 World Cup would be his last assignment as captain in the shortest format whereas in early December, he was removed as the ODI skipper.</p>

<p>Thus, the forthcoming India-South Africa ODI series will see Kohli play solely as a batter&nbsp;given that he has been freed from captaincy duties altogether. As the 33-year-old superstar cricketer hasn't scored an international ton since late 2019, fans are eagerly waiting for King Kohli to return to his best and dominate from the word go, sans&nbsp;captaincy responsibilities.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/one-match-makes-virat-kohli-turned-down-bccis-offer-to-play-farewell-test-as-captain-report-445316"><strong>'One match makes...': Virat Kohli turned down BCCI's offer to play farewell Test as captain - Report</strong></a></p>

<p>Speaking about Kohli's new role in the white-ball series against Temba Bavuma-led South Africa, ex-Indian opener Gautam Gambhir gave legendary captain MS Dhoni a special mention and said on Star Sports, (on being asked about the changes fans can see in Kohli) "What new do you want to see? Captaincy is not anyone's birthright. People like MS Dhoni have given the captaincy baton to Virat Kohli, he has played under Virat Kohli as well. He has won three ICC trophies and four IPL trophies as well," Gambhir said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-had-no-pressure-from-the-board-selectors-bcci-treasurer-reacts-to-kohli-leaving-test-captaincy-445254"><strong>Virat had no pressure from the board, selectors: BCCI treasurer reacts to Kohli leaving Test captaincy</strong></a></p>

<p>"I think Kohli should look to score runs and that is more important. When you dream of playing for India, you don't dream to become a captain. You dream of winning games for India and nothing changes, except that you are not going out there to do the toss and set the field placement, but your energy and intensity should remain the same because it's an honor playing for the country," Gambhir added. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The India-SA ODIs will commence on January 19 at Paarl. In limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma's absence, due to hamstring injury, KL Rahul will lead the Kohli-starrer Team India in the forthcoming ODI series in the African nation.</p>


On Saturday (January 15), Virat Kohli dropped a bomb by announcing his decision to step aside as the Test captain. In mid-September 2021, Kohli had revealed that the T20 World Cup would be his last assignment as captain in the shortest format whereas in early December, he was removed as the ODI skipper.

On Saturday (January 15), Virat Kohli dropped a bomb by announcing his decision to step aside as the Test captain. In mid-September 2021, Kohli had revealed that the T20 World Cup would be his last assignment as captain in the shortest format whereas in early December, he was removed as the ODI skipper. Thus, the forthcoming India-South Africa ODI series will see Kohli play solely as a batter given that he has been freed from captaincy duties altogether. As the 33-year-old superstar cricketer hasn't scored an international ton since late 2019, fans are eagerly waiting for King Kohli to return to his best and dominate from the word go, sans captaincy responsibilities. ALSO READ | 'One match makes...': Virat Kohli turned down BCCI's offer to play farewell Test as captain - Report Speaking about Kohli's new role in the white-ball series against Temba Bavuma-led South Africa, ex-Indian opener Gautam Gambhir gave legendary captain MS Dhoni a special mention and said on Star Sports, (on being asked about the changes fans can see in Kohli) "What new do you want to see? Captaincy is not anyone's birthright. People like MS Dhoni have given the captaincy baton to Virat Kohli, he has played under Virat Kohli as well. He has won three ICC trophies and four IPL trophies as well," Gambhir said. ALSO READ | Virat had no pressure from the board, selectors: BCCI treasurer reacts to Kohli leaving Test captaincy "I think Kohli should look to score runs and that is more important. When you dream of playing for India, you don't dream to become a captain. You dream of winning games for India and nothing changes, except that you are not going out there to do the toss and set the field placement, but your energy and intensity should remain the same because it's an honor playing for the country," Gambhir added. The India-SA ODIs will commence on January 19 at Paarl. In limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma's absence, due to hamstring injury, KL Rahul will lead the Kohli-starrer Team India in the forthcoming ODI series in the African nation.

Captaincy is not anyone's birthright: Gambhir hopes Virat Kohli can be at his dominant best in SA ODIs

<p>Virat Kohli announced his decision to step down as India's Test captain on Saturday (January 15). It came as a surprising call as Kohli, one of the most successful captains of all time in the longest format, had been enjoying tremendous success as the leader of the side in the whites. However, there is more to the story than what meets the eye.</p>

<p>It is no secret that Kohli's relationship with the BCCI had stained after the former skipper delivered an explosive press conference ahead of the South Africa tour in December last year. In the press conference, Kohli openly countered some of the comments made by BCCI president Sourav Ganguly amid raging controversy over the board's decision to replace him with Rohit Sharma as the ODI captain.</p>

<p>Kohli had last year announced he will be leaving India's T20I captaincy while expressing his desire to continue leading the team in both Tests and ODIs. However, he was replaced a few months later with the selectors arguing that they wanted only one captain in limited-overs formats.</p>

<p>As per a report in PTI, Kohli's relations with the BCCI hit the lowest after his bold presser following his sacking as ODI captain and that it was his decision alone to give up Test captaincy. Kohli reportedly had no prior discussions with any of the BCCI top brass before making his decision official on Saturday.</p>

<p>As per the report, Kohli informed the biggies in the BCCI that he is 'tired' and doesn't want to lead the Test team anymore. The BCCI refrained from making any efforts to ask him to reconsider his decision and welcomed the move from the former India captain.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-rohit-or-rahul-sunil-gavaskar-names-player-who-should-replace-virat-kohli-as-indias-next-test-captain-445170">Not Rohit or Rahul! Gavaskar names player who should replace Virat Kohli as India's next Test captain</a></p>

<p><strong>Rohit Sharma set to be the new Test captain?</strong></p>

<p>As per PTI, Rohit Sharma is likely to be appointed as the new Test captain of the Indian team given that he is fit to return ahead of the upcoming home series against Sri Lanka. If all goes well, Rohit will become India's full-time captain across all formats having already been handed over the baton in ODIs and T20Is.</p>

<p>KL Rahul, who led India in Kohli's absence in the second Test against South Africa and acted as his deputy in the series against the Proteas, is likely to be the permanent vice-captain of the Test side going forward. It remains to be seen when and if BCCI will officially hand over Test captaincy to Rohit ahead of the Sri Lanka series.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Virat Kohli announced his decision to step down as India's Test captain on Saturday (January 15). It came as a surprising call as Kohli, one of the most successful captains of all time in the longest format, had been enjoying tremendous success as the leader of the side in the whites.

Virat Kohli announced his decision to step down as India's Test captain on Saturday (January 15). It came as a surprising call as Kohli, one of the most successful captains of all time in the longest format, had been enjoying tremendous success as the leader of the side in the whites. However, there is more to the story than what meets the eye. It is no secret that Kohli's relationship with the BCCI had stained after the former skipper delivered an explosive press conference ahead of the South Africa tour in December last year. In the press conference, Kohli openly countered some of the comments made by BCCI president Sourav Ganguly amid raging controversy over the board's decision to replace him with Rohit Sharma as the ODI captain. Kohli had last year announced he will be leaving India's T20I captaincy while expressing his desire to continue leading the team in both Tests and ODIs. However, he was replaced a few months later with the selectors arguing that they wanted only one captain in limited-overs formats. As per a report in PTI, Kohli's relations with the BCCI hit the lowest after his bold presser following his sacking as ODI captain and that it was his decision alone to give up Test captaincy. Kohli reportedly had no prior discussions with any of the BCCI top brass before making his decision official on Saturday. As per the report, Kohli informed the biggies in the BCCI that he is 'tired' and doesn't want to lead the Test team anymore. The BCCI refrained from making any efforts to ask him to reconsider his decision and welcomed the move from the former India captain. Also Read: Not Rohit or Rahul! Gavaskar names player who should replace Virat Kohli as India's next Test captain Rohit Sharma set to be the new Test captain? As per PTI, Rohit Sharma is likely to be appointed as the new Test captain of the Indian team given that he is fit to return ahead of the upcoming home series against Sri Lanka. If all goes well, Rohit will become India's full-time captain across all formats having already been handed over the baton in ODIs and T20Is. KL Rahul, who led India in Kohli's absence in the second Test against South Africa and acted as his deputy in the series against the Proteas, is likely to be the permanent vice-captain of the Test side going forward. It remains to be seen when and if BCCI will officially hand over Test captaincy to Rohit ahead of the Sri Lanka series.

Virat Kohli was 'tired', was his decision alone to leave Test captaincy; Rohit likely to take over - Report

<p>Virat Kohli announced his resignation as the Test captain of the Indian cricket team on Saturday (January 15), a day after the conclusion of the three-match Test series against South Africa which India lost 2-1. The series was being deemed as India's best chance to clinch their maiden Test series win against the Proteas in their own backyard.</p>

<p>However, Kohli &amp; Co. failed to claim the three-match rubber despite coming close having won the series-opener comfortably to go 1-0 up. It turned out to be Kohli's last Test series as the captain of the Indian team as he took to social media to announce his surprising decision which left the entire cricket fraternity in shock.</p>

<p>While there have been rumours floating around on social media regarding BCCI's possible hand in the matter after Kohli had a public fallout with the board earlier this year over his sacking as ODI captain, the board has maintained Kohli was not asked to leave the top post.</p>

<p>BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal opened up on his decision to step down as Test captain and said Kohli had no pressure from the BCCI or the selectors while adding that he could have carried on as captain for another few years.</p>

<p>“Virat Kohli had no pressure from the BCCI or selectors to step down. It’s his decision and we respect that, but he could have carried on for another two to three years as captain," Dhumal told <em>News18</em>.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-held-on-to-nothing-with-greed-anushka-sharma-posts-hearfelt-note-as-virat-kohli-gives-up-test-captaincy-445182">You held on to nothing with greed: Anushka Sharma posts heartfelt note as Virat Kohli gives up Test captaincy</a></p>

<p>While Kohli didn't reveal the exact reason behind his decision to quit Test captaincy, the Indian skipper in his statement said he has always given his 120 per cent to the team and he can't be dishonest to the team by not putting in the same efforts now.</p>

<p>"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," Kohli said in his statement.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Virat Kohli announced his resignation as the Test captain of the Indian cricket team on Saturday (January 15), a day after the conclusion of the three-match Test series against South Africa which India lost 2-1.

Virat Kohli announced his resignation as the Test captain of the Indian cricket team on Saturday (January 15), a day after the conclusion of the three-match Test series against South Africa which India lost 2-1. The series was being deemed as India's best chance to clinch their maiden Test series win against the Proteas in their own backyard. However, Kohli & Co. failed to claim the three-match rubber despite coming close having won the series-opener comfortably to go 1-0 up. It turned out to be Kohli's last Test series as the captain of the Indian team as he took to social media to announce his surprising decision which left the entire cricket fraternity in shock. While there have been rumours floating around on social media regarding BCCI's possible hand in the matter after Kohli had a public fallout with the board earlier this year over his sacking as ODI captain, the board has maintained Kohli was not asked to leave the top post. BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal opened up on his decision to step down as Test captain and said Kohli had no pressure from the BCCI or the selectors while adding that he could have carried on as captain for another few years. “Virat Kohli had no pressure from the BCCI or selectors to step down. It’s his decision and we respect that, but he could have carried on for another two to three years as captain," Dhumal told News18. Also Read: You held on to nothing with greed: Anushka Sharma posts heartfelt note as Virat Kohli gives up Test captaincy While Kohli didn't reveal the exact reason behind his decision to quit Test captaincy, the Indian skipper in his statement said he has always given his 120 per cent to the team and he can't be dishonest to the team by not putting in the same efforts now. "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," Kohli said in his statement.

Virat had no pressure from the board, selectors: BCCI treasurer reacts to Kohli leaving Test captaincy

<p>Bollywood star Anushka Sharma took to Instagram to share a heartfelt note after her husband Virat Kohli's decision to leave India's Test captaincy. Kohli announced his resignation from Test captaincy on Saturday (January 15) following the team's 2-1 defeat in the recently-concluded Test series against South Africa away from home.</p>

<p>Kohli had stepped down as T20I captain last year before being replaced as the ODI captain of the Indian team ahead of the South Africa tour. He had a fallout with the BCCI after openly countering president Sourav Ganguly's comments on his sacking as ODI captain.</p>

<p>However, it was a surprising decision for Kohli to give up Test captaincy considering how well he was leading the team in the longest format. Kohli signed off as the most successful Indian captain of all time in Tests with 40 wins from 68 matches. He&nbsp;also became the first Asian captain to win a Test series in Australia in 2019 when he led India to their maiden Test series win Down Under.</p>

<p>Reacting to her husband's decision to give up Test captaincy, Anushka lauded him for always being honest to the game and giving his every ounce of energy to winning a game for his country. In a heartfelt note, Anushka said she is proud of what the team achieved under Kohli's leadership and his personal transformation during the seven-year tenure.</p>

<p>"I remember the day in 2014 when you told me that you have been made the captain as MS had decided to retire from test cricket. I remember MS, you &amp; I having a chat later that day &amp; him joking about how quickly your beard will start turning grey. We all had a good laugh about it. Since that day, I’ve seen more than just your beard turning grey. I’ve seen growth. Immense growth. Around you &amp; within you. And yes, I am very proud of your growth as the captain of the Indian National Cricket team &amp; what achievements the team had under your leadership. But I’m more proud of the growth you achieved within you," Anushka wrote in her post.</p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CYyUQ-ksZk8/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by AnushkaSharma1588 (@anushkasharma)</a></p>
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<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-was-tired-was-his-decision-alone-to-leave-test-captaincy-rohit-likely-to-take-over-report-445179">Virat Kohli was 'tired', was his decision alone to leave Test captaincy; Rohit likely to take over - Report</a></p>

<p>"And my love, I am so proud of you for not letting anything come in the way of your good intentions. You led by example &amp; gave winning on field every ounce of your energy to the extent that after some losses I’ve sat next to you with tears in your eyes, while you wondered if there's still something more you could have done. This is who you are &amp; this is what you expected from everyone. You've been unconventional &amp; straightforward. Pretence is your foe &amp; this is what makes you great in my eyes &amp; the eyes of your admirers. Because underneath all this were your pure, unadulterated intentions always.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"And not everyone will be able to truly understand that. Like I’ve said, truly blessed are those who tried to get to know you beneath what meets the eye. You are not perfect &amp; have your flaws but then again when did you ever try to conceal that? What you did was to always stand up for doing the right thing, the harder thing, always! You held on to nothing with greed, not even this position &amp; I know that. Because when one holds on to something so tightly they limit themselves &amp; you, my love, are limitless. Our daughter will see the learning of these 7 years in the father that you are to her," Anushka added in her letter for her husband.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-rohit-or-rahul-sunil-gavaskar-names-player-who-should-replace-virat-kohli-as-indias-next-test-captain-445170">&nbsp;Not Rohit or Rahul! Sunil Gavaskar names player who should replace Virat Kohli as India's next Test captain</a></p>

<p>Kohli had taken over as India's full-time Test captain from MS Dhoni in 2014 and led the country to some memorable wins at home and away from home. He led India to Test series wins in Australia, West Indies and Sri Lanka while the team is leading 2-1 in the now-postponed series in England.</p>

<p>Kohli is the most successful Indian Test captain and led the country to the top of ICC Test rankings in as many as five annual years. He is also the fourth most successful Test captain of all time overall.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Bollywood star Anushka Sharma took to Instagram to share a heartfelt note after her husband Virat Kohli's decision to leave India's Test captaincy. Kohli announced his resignation from Test captaincy on Saturday (January 15) following the team's 2-1 defeat in the recently-concluded Test series against South Africa away from home.

Bollywood star Anushka Sharma took to Instagram to share a heartfelt note after her husband Virat Kohli's decision to leave India's Test captaincy. Kohli announced his resignation from Test captaincy on Saturday (January 15) following the team's 2-1 defeat in the recently-concluded Test series against South Africa away from home. Kohli had stepped down as T20I captain last year before being replaced as the ODI captain of the Indian team ahead of the South Africa tour. He had a fallout with the BCCI after openly countering president Sourav Ganguly's comments on his sacking as ODI captain. However, it was a surprising decision for Kohli to give up Test captaincy considering how well he was leading the team in the longest format. Kohli signed off as the most successful Indian captain of all time in Tests with 40 wins from 68 matches. He also became the first Asian captain to win a Test series in Australia in 2019 when he led India to their maiden Test series win Down Under. Reacting to her husband's decision to give up Test captaincy, Anushka lauded him for always being honest to the game and giving his every ounce of energy to winning a game for his country. In a heartfelt note, Anushka said she is proud of what the team achieved under Kohli's leadership and his personal transformation during the seven-year tenure. "I remember the day in 2014 when you told me that you have been made the captain as MS had decided to retire from test cricket. I remember MS, you & I having a chat later that day & him joking about how quickly your beard will start turning grey. We all had a good laugh about it. Since that day, I’ve seen more than just your beard turning grey. I’ve seen growth. Immense growth. Around you & within you. And yes, I am very proud of your growth as the captain of the Indian National Cricket team & what achievements the team had under your leadership. But I’m more proud of the growth you achieved within you," Anushka wrote in her post. View this post on Instagram A post shared by AnushkaSharma1588 (@anushkasharma) × Also Read: Virat Kohli was 'tired', was his decision alone to leave Test captaincy; Rohit likely to take over - Report "And my love, I am so proud of you for not letting anything come in the way of your good intentions. You led by example & gave winning on field every ounce of your energy to the extent that after some losses I’ve sat next to you with tears in your eyes, while you wondered if there's still something more you could have done. This is who you are & this is what you expected from everyone. You've been unconventional & straightforward. Pretence is your foe & this is what makes you great in my eyes & the eyes of your admirers. Because underneath all this were your pure, unadulterated intentions always. "And not everyone will be able to truly understand that. Like I’ve said, truly blessed are those who tried to get to know you beneath what meets the eye. You are not perfect & have your flaws but then again when did you ever try to conceal that? What you did was to always stand up for doing the right thing, the harder thing, always! You held on to nothing with greed, not even this position & I know that. Because when one holds on to something so tightly they limit themselves & you, my love, are limitless. Our daughter will see the learning of these 7 years in the father that you are to her," Anushka added in her letter for her husband. Also Read: Not Rohit or Rahul! Sunil Gavaskar names player who should replace Virat Kohli as India's next Test captain Kohli had taken over as India's full-time Test captain from MS Dhoni in 2014 and led the country to some memorable wins at home and away from home. He led India to Test series wins in Australia, West Indies and Sri Lanka while the team is leading 2-1 in the now-postponed series in England. Kohli is the most successful Indian Test captain and led the country to the top of ICC Test rankings in as many as five annual years. He is also the fourth most successful Test captain of all time overall.

You held on to nothing with greed: Anushka Sharma posts heartfelt note as Virat Kohli gives up Test captaincy

<p>Wishes have been pouring in from all corners for Virat Kohli after he announced his decision to relinquish India's Test captaincy on Saturday (January 15). Several current and former cricketers have taken to social media to congratulate the former India captain on a successful stint as the leader of the national team in the longest format of the game.</p>

<p>Kohli announced his decision, a day after India's seven-wicket loss in the third and final Test of the recently-concluded three-match Test series against South Africa. The seven-wicket defeat saw India lose the series 2-1 as their dream of winning their maiden Test series against the Proteas in their own backyard remained unfulfilled.</p>

<p>Nonetheless, Kohli signed off as one of the most decorated Test captains of all time. He remains the first Asian captain to win a Test series on Australian soil and led India to some memorable wins both at home and away from home. Kohli is the most successful Indian captain of all time in Tests with 40 wins in 68 matches as skipper of the side.</p>

<p>While the Indian cricket fraternity sent across their wishes on Kohli's stepping down as the Test team captain of the Indian team, former and current Pakistani cricketers also hailed the former Indian skipper on his departure. A number of Pakistani players including the likes of Mohammad Amir, Nasim Shah and others lauded Kohli.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-held-on-to-nothing-with-greed-anushka-sharma-posts-hearfelt-note-as-virat-kohli-gives-up-test-captaincy-445182">You held on to nothing with greed: Anushka Sharma posts hearfelt note as Kohli gives up Test captaincy</a></p>

<p>"@imVkohli brother for me u are a true leader of upcoming generation in cricket because u are inspiration for young Cricketers. keep rocking on and of the field," wrote former Pakistan pacer Amir, who has enjoyed some fierce on-field duels with Kohli.</p>

<h4><strong>Here's how the Pakistani cricket fraternity reacted to Virat Kohli's decision to quit Test captaincy:</strong></h4>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> brother for me u are a true leader of upcoming generation in cricket because u are inspiration for young Cricketers. keep rocking on and of the field. <a href="https://t.co/0ayJoaCC3k">pic.twitter.com/0ayJoaCC3k</a></p>
— Mohammad Amir (@iamamirofficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/iamamirofficial/status/1482446122660597768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A remarkable journey, career and perseverance which brought us great cricket and entertainment. A brilliant inspiring player of the sport takes a bow. Well done <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> in all your efforts and leading a team with such poise and dignity. Go well ! <a href="https://t.co/fLBhjtbNor">https://t.co/fLBhjtbNor</a></p>
— Azhar Mahmood (@AzharMahmood11) <a href="https://twitter.com/AzharMahmood11/status/1482375695095508996?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">You are the inspiration for many! <a href="https://t.co/0xa9mVAoHv">https://t.co/0xa9mVAoHv</a></p>
— Naseem Shah (@iNaseemShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/iNaseemShah/status/1482422373374644235?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">That flare of passion with which you led your side was visible in your captaincy. It’s been 7 years of fearless leadership, quality spirit of cricket and a great ambassadorship of the game. Best wishes for the future bro <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a>, keep rocking <a href="https://t.co/G2BcSTzIRM">https://t.co/G2BcSTzIRM</a></p>
— Ahmad Shahzad 🇵🇰 (@iamAhmadshahzad) <a href="https://twitter.com/iamAhmadshahzad/status/1482405348380184583?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-was-tired-was-his-decision-alone-to-leave-test-captaincy-rohit-likely-to-take-over-report-445179">Virat Kohli was 'tired', was his decision alone to leave Test captaincy; Rohit likely to take over - Report</a></p>

<p>Kohli was appointed as India's full-time Test captain in the year 2014 after MS Dhoni's retirement from the longest format. In his seven-year stint as the captain of the team, Kohli took India to greater heights in Test cricket and made them a dominating force across all conditions.</p>

<p>Kohli led India to their maiden Test series win in Australia while also inspiring them to series victories in West Indies and Sri Lanka. Kohli closely missed out on ending his captaincy stint with a series win in South Africa as India slipped to a 2-1 defeat after winning the series-opener comfortably.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Wishes have been pouring in from all corners for Virat Kohli after he announced his decision to relinquish India's Test captaincy on Saturday (January 15). Several current and former cricketers have taken to social media to congratulate the former India captain on a successful stint as the leader of the national team in the longest format of the game.

Wishes have been pouring in from all corners for Virat Kohli after he announced his decision to relinquish India's Test captaincy on Saturday (January 15). Several current and former cricketers have taken to social media to congratulate the former India captain on a successful stint as the leader of the national team in the longest format of the game. Kohli announced his decision, a day after India's seven-wicket loss in the third and final Test of the recently-concluded three-match Test series against South Africa. The seven-wicket defeat saw India lose the series 2-1 as their dream of winning their maiden Test series against the Proteas in their own backyard remained unfulfilled. Nonetheless, Kohli signed off as one of the most decorated Test captains of all time. He remains the first Asian captain to win a Test series on Australian soil and led India to some memorable wins both at home and away from home. Kohli is the most successful Indian captain of all time in Tests with 40 wins in 68 matches as skipper of the side. While the Indian cricket fraternity sent across their wishes on Kohli's stepping down as the Test team captain of the Indian team, former and current Pakistani cricketers also hailed the former Indian skipper on his departure. A number of Pakistani players including the likes of Mohammad Amir, Nasim Shah and others lauded Kohli. Also Read: You held on to nothing with greed: Anushka Sharma posts hearfelt note as Kohli gives up Test captaincy "@imVkohli brother for me u are a true leader of upcoming generation in cricket because u are inspiration for young Cricketers. keep rocking on and of the field," wrote former Pakistan pacer Amir, who has enjoyed some fierce on-field duels with Kohli. Here's how the Pakistani cricket fraternity reacted to Virat Kohli's decision to quit Test captaincy: @imVkohli brother for me u are a true leader of upcoming generation in cricket because u are inspiration for young Cricketers. keep rocking on and of the field. pic.twitter.com/0ayJoaCC3k — Mohammad Amir (@iamamirofficial) January 15, 2022 × A remarkable journey, career and perseverance which brought us great cricket and entertainment. A brilliant inspiring player of the sport takes a bow. Well done @imVkohli in all your efforts and leading a team with such poise and dignity. Go well ! https://t.co/fLBhjtbNor — Azhar Mahmood (@AzharMahmood11) January 15, 2022 × You are the inspiration for many! https://t.co/0xa9mVAoHv — Naseem Shah (@iNaseemShah) January 15, 2022 × That flare of passion with which you led your side was visible in your captaincy. It’s been 7 years of fearless leadership, quality spirit of cricket and a great ambassadorship of the game. Best wishes for the future bro @imVkohli, keep rocking https://t.co/G2BcSTzIRM — Ahmad Shahzad 🇵🇰 (@iamAhmadshahzad) January 15, 2022 × Also Read: Virat Kohli was 'tired', was his decision alone to leave Test captaincy; Rohit likely to take over - Report Kohli was appointed as India's full-time Test captain in the year 2014 after MS Dhoni's retirement from the longest format. In his seven-year stint as the captain of the team, Kohli took India to greater heights in Test cricket and made them a dominating force across all conditions. Kohli led India to their maiden Test series win in Australia while also inspiring them to series victories in West Indies and Sri Lanka. Kohli closely missed out on ending his captaincy stint with a series win in South Africa as India slipped to a 2-1 defeat after winning the series-opener comfortably.

'7 years of fearless leadership': Pakistani cricketers hail Virat Kohli as he leaves India's Test captaincy

<p>Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrkear shared his two cents on Virat Kohli's shocking announcement to leave India's Test captaincy. Kohli on Saturday (January 15) took to social media to confirm that his time as the captain of the Indian Test team was over and that he is not looking to continue in the role going forward. Kohli's decision came after India's 2-1 loss in the recently-concluded three-match Test series against South Africa.</p>

<p>Wishes and congratulatory messages have been pouring in from all corners for Kohli, who is signing off as India's most successful Test captain of all time. Kohli is also one of the best Test captains overall and has an impeccable captaincy record in the longest format with 40 wins and 17 draws in 68 Test matches as a captain.</p>

<p>This is not the first time Kohli has left a&nbsp;captaincy position as he had last year stepped down as India's T20I captain and announced that he will not be leading the side post the T20 World Cup 2021. He had also relinquished the captaincy of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) after the conclusion of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021.</p>

<p>Sharing his views on the sudden unexpected announcement from Kohli which has shaken up the cricketing world, Manjrekar said Kohli's decision to leave captaincy posts of the national team and his IPL team one after another suggests that he wants to be unsackable as skipper. Manjrekar feels Kohli knew his captaincy could have been under threat and decided to walk away.</p>

<p>“It’s come one after the other in a very short span of time - giving up the white-ball captaincy and IPL captaincy as well. This also was unexpected, but it is interesting that all these three resignations of important positions have come so quickly one after the other,” Manjrekar said on <em>ESPN Cricinfo</em>.</p>

<p>“I think, in some way, he wants to make himself unsackable as captain. When he gets that vibe that his captaincy is under threat, he tends to quit,” added the former India batsman, who never shies away from expressing his views on cricketing matters.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-was-tired-was-his-decision-alone-to-leave-test-captaincy-rohit-likely-to-take-over-report-445179">&nbsp;Virat Kohli was 'tired', was his decision alone to leave Test captaincy; Rohit likely to take over - Report</a></p>

<p>Kohli was appointed as India's full-time Test captain in the year 2014 when he took over from the legendary MS Dhoni. Kohli instilled a belief in the team and inststantly took them to the top of the ICC rankings making India a force to reckon with in the purest format of the game.</p>

<p>India dominated teams at home and away from home under his leadership and registered Test series wins in Australia, West Indies and Sri Lanka among others besides leading 2-1 in the postponed Test series against England in their own backyard last year.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrkear shared his two cents on Virat Kohli's shocking announcement to leave India's Test captaincy. Kohli on Saturday (January 15) took to social media to confirm that his time as the captain of the Indian Test team was over and that he is not looking to continue in the role going forward.

Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrkear shared his two cents on Virat Kohli's shocking announcement to leave India's Test captaincy. Kohli on Saturday (January 15) took to social media to confirm that his time as the captain of the Indian Test team was over and that he is not looking to continue in the role going forward. Kohli's decision came after India's 2-1 loss in the recently-concluded three-match Test series against South Africa. Wishes and congratulatory messages have been pouring in from all corners for Kohli, who is signing off as India's most successful Test captain of all time. Kohli is also one of the best Test captains overall and has an impeccable captaincy record in the longest format with 40 wins and 17 draws in 68 Test matches as a captain. This is not the first time Kohli has left a captaincy position as he had last year stepped down as India's T20I captain and announced that he will not be leading the side post the T20 World Cup 2021. He had also relinquished the captaincy of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) after the conclusion of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Sharing his views on the sudden unexpected announcement from Kohli which has shaken up the cricketing world, Manjrekar said Kohli's decision to leave captaincy posts of the national team and his IPL team one after another suggests that he wants to be unsackable as skipper. Manjrekar feels Kohli knew his captaincy could have been under threat and decided to walk away. “It’s come one after the other in a very short span of time - giving up the white-ball captaincy and IPL captaincy as well. This also was unexpected, but it is interesting that all these three resignations of important positions have come so quickly one after the other,” Manjrekar said on ESPN Cricinfo. “I think, in some way, he wants to make himself unsackable as captain. When he gets that vibe that his captaincy is under threat, he tends to quit,” added the former India batsman, who never shies away from expressing his views on cricketing matters. Also Read: Virat Kohli was 'tired', was his decision alone to leave Test captaincy; Rohit likely to take over - Report Kohli was appointed as India's full-time Test captain in the year 2014 when he took over from the legendary MS Dhoni. Kohli instilled a belief in the team and inststantly took them to the top of the ICC rankings making India a force to reckon with in the purest format of the game. India dominated teams at home and away from home under his leadership and registered Test series wins in Australia, West Indies and Sri Lanka among others besides leading 2-1 in the postponed Test series against England in their own backyard last year.

'He wants to make himself unsackable': Manjrekar on Kohli's shocking decision to resign as Test captain

<p>Virat Kohli's shocking decision to leave India's Test captaincy has become one of the major talking points in world cricket. Kohli announced his decision on social media on Saturday (January 15) following India's 2-1 defeat in the recently-concluded three-match Test series against South Africa.</p>

<p>Former India captain and batting legend Sunil Gavaskar has named an Indian batter who he feels can replace Kohli as the next skipper of the Indian Test team. Gavaskar snubbed both KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma, who are among strong contenders to replace Kohli as the new Test skipper and backed Rishabh Pant to be handed over the baton.</p>

<p>Gavaskar, who had earlier backed KL Rahul to be the vice-captain in the longest format, feels selectors will have to engage in a long debate on whom to appoint as the next Test skipper of the side. The batting legend feels Pant can be an ideal candidate for captaincy considering he is a regular across all formats and has the leadership qualities.</p>

<p>"It's going to be quite a debate as far as the selection committee is concerned as to who should be taking Indian cricket forward. First of all, it should be someone who is an automatic pick across all formats of the game. Once that happens, it will be a lot easier. If you ask me, I am still staying, I would look at Rishabh Pant as the next India captain,” Gavaskar said on <em>India Today</em>.</p>

<p>Pant has been a consistent performer for India in Tests over the last few years and has scored runs in all sorts of conditions. After being criticised for throwing away his wicket in the second innings of the second Test against South Africa, Pant silenced his critics with a stunning unbeaten century in the recently-concluded third Test. He scored an unbeaten 100 off 139 balls, however, his efforts went in vain as South Africa won the decider by seven wickets to take the series 2-1.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shocked-rohit-sharma-reacts-to-virat-kohlis-surprise-decision-to-quit-indias-test-captaincy-445149">'Shocked': Rohit Sharma reacts to Virat Kohli's surprise decision to quit India's Test captaincy</a></strong></p>

<p>Pant has been backed by many as a future superstar of the Indian team but has been often criticised for throwing his wicket away with careless batting at crucial junctures. However, Gavaskar believes the added responsibility of captaining the side can help inspire a change in his approach.</p>

<p>"For one reason only, just like Rohit Sharma was given the captaincy of Mumbai Indians when Ricky Ponting stepped down, look at the change in his batting after that. Suddenly the responsibility of being captain made him convert those beautiful cameos of 30s, 40s and 50s into hundreds, 150s and 200s. I think that sense of responsibility given to Rishabh Pant will help him score many more of that wonderful hundred he scored at Newlands," Gavaskar explained.</p>


Virat Kohli's shocking decision to leave India's Test captaincy has become one of the major talking points in world cricket. Kohli announced his decision on social media on Saturday (January 15) following India's 2-1 defeat in the recently-concluded three-match Test series against South Africa.

Virat Kohli's shocking decision to leave India's Test captaincy has become one of the major talking points in world cricket. Kohli announced his decision on social media on Saturday (January 15) following India's 2-1 defeat in the recently-concluded three-match Test series against South Africa. Former India captain and batting legend Sunil Gavaskar has named an Indian batter who he feels can replace Kohli as the next skipper of the Indian Test team. Gavaskar snubbed both KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma, who are among strong contenders to replace Kohli as the new Test skipper and backed Rishabh Pant to be handed over the baton. Gavaskar, who had earlier backed KL Rahul to be the vice-captain in the longest format, feels selectors will have to engage in a long debate on whom to appoint as the next Test skipper of the side. The batting legend feels Pant can be an ideal candidate for captaincy considering he is a regular across all formats and has the leadership qualities. "It's going to be quite a debate as far as the selection committee is concerned as to who should be taking Indian cricket forward. First of all, it should be someone who is an automatic pick across all formats of the game. Once that happens, it will be a lot easier. If you ask me, I am still staying, I would look at Rishabh Pant as the next India captain,” Gavaskar said on India Today. Pant has been a consistent performer for India in Tests over the last few years and has scored runs in all sorts of conditions. After being criticised for throwing away his wicket in the second innings of the second Test against South Africa, Pant silenced his critics with a stunning unbeaten century in the recently-concluded third Test. He scored an unbeaten 100 off 139 balls, however, his efforts went in vain as South Africa won the decider by seven wickets to take the series 2-1. Also Read: 'Shocked': Rohit Sharma reacts to Virat Kohli's surprise decision to quit India's Test captaincy Pant has been backed by many as a future superstar of the Indian team but has been often criticised for throwing his wicket away with careless batting at crucial junctures. However, Gavaskar believes the added responsibility of captaining the side can help inspire a change in his approach. "For one reason only, just like Rohit Sharma was given the captaincy of Mumbai Indians when Ricky Ponting stepped down, look at the change in his batting after that. Suddenly the responsibility of being captain made him convert those beautiful cameos of 30s, 40s and 50s into hundreds, 150s and 200s. I think that sense of responsibility given to Rishabh Pant will help him score many more of that wonderful hundred he scored at Newlands," Gavaskar explained.

Not Rohit or Rahul! Sunil Gavaskar names player who should replace Virat Kohli as India's next Test captain

<p>Virat Kohli left the entire cricket fraternity in shock on Saturday by announcing his decision to step down as the Test captain of the Indian cricket team. Kohli's decision came as a surprise to many, including his Indian teammate and limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma.</p>

<p>Rohit took to Twitter to reveal he was shocked by the decision while congratulating Kohli on a successful captaincy stint. Rohit had replaced Kohli as India's T20I captain last year after the latter decided to step down as the skipper in the shortest format. The Hitman was then appointed as India's ODI captain following Kohli's sacking.</p>

<p>Rohit took to social media to react to Kohli's decision to give up Test captaincy and said he was 'shocked' by his teammate's announcement. The Hitman went on to congratulate Kohli for a successful stint as the leader of the Test side and wished him the best for his future.</p>

<p>"Shocked!! But congratulations on a successful stint as Indian captain. All the best wishes for the future," Rohit wrote in an Instagram post.</p>

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<p>Kohli's decision comes after India's 2-1 defeat in the recently-concluded three-match Test series against South Africa away from home. The former Indian skipper did not have a great series with the bat but was exceptional as the leader of the side as he inspired the team to a comprehensive 113-run win in the series-opener in Centurion.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/few-have-achieved-what-you-did-tributes-pour-in-on-twitter-as-virat-kohli-gives-up-indias-test-captaincy-445069">'Few have achieved what you did': Tributes pour in on Twitter as Virat Kohli gives up India's Test captaincy</a></p>

<p>Kohli then had to miss the second Test in Johannesburg due to a back issue as South Africa bounced back to level the series 1-1. He returned to lead India in the series-deciding third and final Test which South Africa managed to win by seven wickets to clinch the series 2-1.</p>

<p>Kohli, who had taken over as India's full-time Test captain in 2014, led India to numerous memorable wins both at home and away from home. He played an instrumental role in making India a force to reckon with in the longest format and signs off as the most successful Test captain of the country with 40 wins in 68 matches.</p>


Virat Kohli left the entire cricket fraternity in shock on Saturday by announcing his decision to step down as the Test captain of the Indian cricket team. Kohli's decision came as a surprise to many, including his Indian teammate and limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma.

Virat Kohli left the entire cricket fraternity in shock on Saturday by announcing his decision to step down as the Test captain of the Indian cricket team. Kohli's decision came as a surprise to many, including his Indian teammate and limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma. Rohit took to Twitter to reveal he was shocked by the decision while congratulating Kohli on a successful captaincy stint. Rohit had replaced Kohli as India's T20I captain last year after the latter decided to step down as the skipper in the shortest format. The Hitman was then appointed as India's ODI captain following Kohli's sacking. Rohit took to social media to react to Kohli's decision to give up Test captaincy and said he was 'shocked' by his teammate's announcement. The Hitman went on to congratulate Kohli for a successful stint as the leader of the Test side and wished him the best for his future. "Shocked!! But congratulations on a successful stint as Indian captain. All the best wishes for the future," Rohit wrote in an Instagram post. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rohit Sharma (@rohitsharma45) × Kohli's decision comes after India's 2-1 defeat in the recently-concluded three-match Test series against South Africa away from home. The former Indian skipper did not have a great series with the bat but was exceptional as the leader of the side as he inspired the team to a comprehensive 113-run win in the series-opener in Centurion. Also Read: 'Few have achieved what you did': Tributes pour in on Twitter as Virat Kohli gives up India's Test captaincy Kohli then had to miss the second Test in Johannesburg due to a back issue as South Africa bounced back to level the series 1-1. He returned to lead India in the series-deciding third and final Test which South Africa managed to win by seven wickets to clinch the series 2-1. Kohli, who had taken over as India's full-time Test captain in 2014, led India to numerous memorable wins both at home and away from home. He played an instrumental role in making India a force to reckon with in the longest format and signs off as the most successful Test captain of the country with 40 wins in 68 matches.

'Shocked': Rohit Sharma reacts to Virat Kohli's surprise decision to quit India's Test captaincy

<p>Indian Test captain Virat Kohli and a couple of other Indian players didn't shy away from expressing their frustration after a controversial DRS call went South Africa's way on Day 3 of the recently-concluded third Test between the two sides at the Newlands in Cape Town. South Africa captain Dean Elgar survived a close lbw call after opting for the DRS leaving Indian players miffed.</p>

<p>R Ashwin had trapped Elgar plumb in front of the wicket and the ball had hit the batter below the knee. He was adjudged out by the on-field umpire before reviewig the decision. The hawk-eye predicted the ball to be going over the stumps despite the replays suggesting that it had hit Elgar below the knee.</p>

<p>Indian players were left in shock after what they saw on the screen and went on to vent out their anger on the stump-mic. Indian skipper Kohli walked towards the stump mic and took a dig at the host broadcaster SuperSport alleging that they were controlling the hawk eye.</p>

<p>"Focus on your team as well when they shine the ball eh, not just the opposition. Trying to catch people all the time," Kohli was heard saying on the stump-mic. KL Rahul and R Ashwin also joined the chatter and took digs at SuperSport. "You should find better ways to win, SuperSport," Ashwin was heard saying while Rahul said - "It’s the whole country against 11 guys."</p>

<p>While Kohli and the other Indian players have been criticised a lot by several former cricketers and experts for their behaviour, former Australian cricketers Adam Gilchrist and Shane Warne also shared their views on the matter. Both Gilchrist and Warne observed that the frustration might have been brewing in the Indian camp as it looked like this was not the first instance when such a decision went against them.</p>

<p>"That accusation there I am interested in Warnie, this seems a bit premeditated, and this has been building or brewing…. and it has got to a breaking point. That accusation about filming teams shining the ball I am assuming it goes all the way back to that very ground when the Australians were caught out on camera," said Gilchrist while speaking on <em>Fox Cricket</em>.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-sa-virat-kohli-opens-up-on-dean-elgar-drs-controversy-during-day-3-of-cape-town-test-444841">Virat Kohli opens up on Dean Elgar DRS controversy during Day 3 of Cape Town Test</a></strong></p>

<p>"Look, it is an interesting one, I am not sure that should be happening from a captain of an international team. But sometimes frustration overflows, you just get so frustrated and that’s why I said I wonder if that has happened three or four times through the series, and that was like okay that is enough now we can’t have it anymore," he added.</p>

<p>Indian captain Kohli was asked about the DRS controversy involving Elgar during the post-match press conference after the visitors' defeat in the third Test in Cape Town. However, he refused to make any comments to refrain from triggering a controversy.</p>


Indian Test captain Virat Kohli and a couple of other Indian players didn't shy away from expressing their frustration after a controversial DRS call went South Africa's way on Day 3 of the recently-concluded third Test between the two sides at the Newlands in Cape Town.

Indian Test captain Virat Kohli and a couple of other Indian players didn't shy away from expressing their frustration after a controversial DRS call went South Africa's way on Day 3 of the recently-concluded third Test between the two sides at the Newlands in Cape Town. South Africa captain Dean Elgar survived a close lbw call after opting for the DRS leaving Indian players miffed. R Ashwin had trapped Elgar plumb in front of the wicket and the ball had hit the batter below the knee. He was adjudged out by the on-field umpire before reviewig the decision. The hawk-eye predicted the ball to be going over the stumps despite the replays suggesting that it had hit Elgar below the knee. Indian players were left in shock after what they saw on the screen and went on to vent out their anger on the stump-mic. Indian skipper Kohli walked towards the stump mic and took a dig at the host broadcaster SuperSport alleging that they were controlling the hawk eye. "Focus on your team as well when they shine the ball eh, not just the opposition. Trying to catch people all the time," Kohli was heard saying on the stump-mic. KL Rahul and R Ashwin also joined the chatter and took digs at SuperSport. "You should find better ways to win, SuperSport," Ashwin was heard saying while Rahul said - "It’s the whole country against 11 guys." While Kohli and the other Indian players have been criticised a lot by several former cricketers and experts for their behaviour, former Australian cricketers Adam Gilchrist and Shane Warne also shared their views on the matter. Both Gilchrist and Warne observed that the frustration might have been brewing in the Indian camp as it looked like this was not the first instance when such a decision went against them. "That accusation there I am interested in Warnie, this seems a bit premeditated, and this has been building or brewing…. and it has got to a breaking point. That accusation about filming teams shining the ball I am assuming it goes all the way back to that very ground when the Australians were caught out on camera," said Gilchrist while speaking on Fox Cricket. Also Read: Virat Kohli opens up on Dean Elgar DRS controversy during Day 3 of Cape Town Test "Look, it is an interesting one, I am not sure that should be happening from a captain of an international team. But sometimes frustration overflows, you just get so frustrated and that’s why I said I wonder if that has happened three or four times through the series, and that was like okay that is enough now we can’t have it anymore," he added. Indian captain Kohli was asked about the DRS controversy involving Elgar during the post-match press conference after the visitors' defeat in the third Test in Cape Town. However, he refused to make any comments to refrain from triggering a controversy.

'Wonder if that happened 3-4 times': Warne, Gilchrist react to Virat Kohli's stump-mic outburst in 3rd Test

<p>Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has slammed Team India for their 'baffling' tactics in the recently-concluded series-deciding third Test against South Africa at the Newlands Stadium in Cape Town. India lost the game by seven wickets as South Africa went on to clinch the three-match Test series 2-1.</p>

<p>Gavaskar said he was left surprised by the Indian team's tactics post lunch on Day 4 of the third and final Test between the two sides. South Africa were cruising towards victory post lunch but India refrained from using the likes of Jasprit Bumrah and Shardul Thakur a lot which baffled Gavaskar, who said the visitors looked like they had given up on victory even without a fight.</p>

<p>Gavaskar, who had backed India to script history by winning their maiden Test series in South Africa this time around, said the dream of the maiden Test triumph turned into a nightmare as India lost the series 2-1.</p>

<p>"India's cricket after lunch has just baffled me. One would've thought that you would make one last-ditch effort, bring Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami on to bowl. Because after an interval, batsmen have to reset. India's dream of winning a series for the first time in South Africa has turned into a nightmare," Gavaskar said on-air while commentating during the third Test.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/video-you-go-after-someone-who-is-5-years-younger-kohli-gives-it-back-to-van-der-dussen-in-3rd-test-444775">[VIDEO] 'You go after someone who is 5 years younger': Kohli gives it back to Van der Dussen</a></p>

<p>"What can one say? Both of these victories are comprehensive for South Africa, again winning by seven wickets -- seven wickets in Johannesburg and seven wickets here," he added.</p>

<p>India had made a wonderful start to the three-match Test series with a comprehensive 113-run victory in the series-opener in Centurion. Captain Virat Kohli then had to miss the second Test due to a back issue as South Africa bounced back to draw the series level at 1-1. India stood just one win away from creating history heading into the decider.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wonder-if-that-happened-3-4-times-warne-gilchrist-react-to-virat-kohlis-stump-mic-outburst-in-3rd-test-444929">'Wonder if that happened 3-4 times': Warne, Gilchrist react to Virat Kohli's stump-mic outburst in 3rd Test</a></p>

<p>However, the Proteas produced a good overall show with the bat and the ball to deny the visitors a win to claim the series 2-1. Gavaskar said he believed India will follow a similar template in the next two games after winning the first Test by dominating the proceedings, however, that was not meant to be.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Hasn't even gone close, India had a big victory in the first Test and I really thought that is going to be the template for the next two Test matches as well. Did not happen," said Gavaskar.</p>

<p>"Margin of victories that is something terrific for South Africa. But hard to understand as far as India are concerned. The way they dominated that first Test, really thought they would be able to win the series. I was thinking in terms of a 3-0 series, because of the fragility of the South African batting. The fact that Nortje wasn't playing -- that was a huge plus again for India because you had then two inexperienced bowlers," he explained.</p>

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Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has slammed Team India for their 'baffling' tactics in the recently-concluded series-deciding third Test against South Africa at the Newlands Stadium in Cape Town.

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has slammed Team India for their 'baffling' tactics in the recently-concluded series-deciding third Test against South Africa at the Newlands Stadium in Cape Town. India lost the game by seven wickets as South Africa went on to clinch the three-match Test series 2-1. Gavaskar said he was left surprised by the Indian team's tactics post lunch on Day 4 of the third and final Test between the two sides. South Africa were cruising towards victory post lunch but India refrained from using the likes of Jasprit Bumrah and Shardul Thakur a lot which baffled Gavaskar, who said the visitors looked like they had given up on victory even without a fight. Gavaskar, who had backed India to script history by winning their maiden Test series in South Africa this time around, said the dream of the maiden Test triumph turned into a nightmare as India lost the series 2-1. "India's cricket after lunch has just baffled me. One would've thought that you would make one last-ditch effort, bring Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami on to bowl. Because after an interval, batsmen have to reset. India's dream of winning a series for the first time in South Africa has turned into a nightmare," Gavaskar said on-air while commentating during the third Test. Also Read: [VIDEO] 'You go after someone who is 5 years younger': Kohli gives it back to Van der Dussen "What can one say? Both of these victories are comprehensive for South Africa, again winning by seven wickets -- seven wickets in Johannesburg and seven wickets here," he added. India had made a wonderful start to the three-match Test series with a comprehensive 113-run victory in the series-opener in Centurion. Captain Virat Kohli then had to miss the second Test due to a back issue as South Africa bounced back to draw the series level at 1-1. India stood just one win away from creating history heading into the decider. Also Read: 'Wonder if that happened 3-4 times': Warne, Gilchrist react to Virat Kohli's stump-mic outburst in 3rd Test However, the Proteas produced a good overall show with the bat and the ball to deny the visitors a win to claim the series 2-1. Gavaskar said he believed India will follow a similar template in the next two games after winning the first Test by dominating the proceedings, however, that was not meant to be. "Hasn't even gone close, India had a big victory in the first Test and I really thought that is going to be the template for the next two Test matches as well. Did not happen," said Gavaskar. "Margin of victories that is something terrific for South Africa. But hard to understand as far as India are concerned. The way they dominated that first Test, really thought they would be able to win the series. I was thinking in terms of a 3-0 series, because of the fragility of the South African batting. The fact that Nortje wasn't playing -- that was a huge plus again for India because you had then two inexperienced bowlers," he explained.

'Dream turned into a nightmare': Sunil Gavaskar baffled by India's tactics in third Test against South Africa

<p>The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) treasurer Arun Dhumal on Saturday said that there is no doubt that Virat Kohli is the most successful Indian team captain and cricket in the country would continue to thrive under his mentorship and batting skills.</p>

<p>Dhumal`s remarks came as Kohli stepped down as India`s Test captain after leading the side for seven years. "Virat beyond doubt is the most successful Indian cricket team captain. We respect his decision and we wish him all the best for his future endeavours as a batter. I am sure under his leadership, mentorship and with his batting skills, Indian cricket would keep doing well," Dhumal told ANI.</p>

<p>Kohli`s decision to leave Test captaincy came a day after India lost the three-match Test series against South Africa on Friday. The 33-year-old`s biggest win in the longest format came during 2018-19 as India won its first Test series Down Under. Under his captaincy, India also reached the finals of the World Test Championship (WTC).</p>

<p>When asked whether series defeat against South Africa played a role in Virat`s decision, Dhumal said: "I do not think series loss against South Africa would have weighed that much in his decision. This would have been the first series win in South Africa. There is no Indian Test captain that has won a series in South Africa, so that could not be the case. I am sure he would have thought about his decision, he has been leading the side for seven years. He would have thought that this is the time to give leadership to someone else in the team. He will continue leading with his bat."</p>

<p><strong>Read Also |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-transformed-india-into-a-ruthless-unit-that-performed-admirably-bcci-secretary-jay-shah-445066">&nbsp;Virat Kohli transformed India into a ruthless unit that performed admirably: BCCI Secretary Jay Shah</a></strong></p>

<p>Replying on who can be the next Test captain, Dhumal said: "The decision to appoint a captain is taken by the selectors, not the office bearers. They would discuss among themselves on who will be the next Test captain."</p>

<p>Kohli holds the record for most Test appearances as India Test captain (68) and he also holds the record for most Test wins by an Indian captain (40). Only Graeme Smith, Ricky Ponting, and Steve Waugh have won more matches than Kohli as captain in Test cricket.</p>

<p>Kohli had first led the side in Test cricket in 2014 against Australia. His last game as captain was the Cape Town Test in South Africa, which India lost by seven wickets. Filling the shoes of MS Dhoni was not going to be easy, but Kohli took leadership by storm, and quickly cemented himself as one of the best thinkers the country has seen in Test cricket.</p>

<p>The leadership also brought out the best in Kohli and it saw the batter registering seven double-centuries in the longest format of the game. Kohli also holds the record for scoring most Test centuries (20) as India captain.</p>


The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) treasurer Arun Dhumal on Saturday said that there is no doubt that Virat Kohli is the most successful Indian team captain and cricket in the country would continue to thrive under his mentorship and batting skills.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) treasurer Arun Dhumal on Saturday said that there is no doubt that Virat Kohli is the most successful Indian team captain and cricket in the country would continue to thrive under his mentorship and batting skills. Dhumal`s remarks came as Kohli stepped down as India`s Test captain after leading the side for seven years. "Virat beyond doubt is the most successful Indian cricket team captain. We respect his decision and we wish him all the best for his future endeavours as a batter. I am sure under his leadership, mentorship and with his batting skills, Indian cricket would keep doing well," Dhumal told ANI. Kohli`s decision to leave Test captaincy came a day after India lost the three-match Test series against South Africa on Friday. The 33-year-old`s biggest win in the longest format came during 2018-19 as India won its first Test series Down Under. Under his captaincy, India also reached the finals of the World Test Championship (WTC). When asked whether series defeat against South Africa played a role in Virat`s decision, Dhumal said: "I do not think series loss against South Africa would have weighed that much in his decision. This would have been the first series win in South Africa. There is no Indian Test captain that has won a series in South Africa, so that could not be the case. I am sure he would have thought about his decision, he has been leading the side for seven years. He would have thought that this is the time to give leadership to someone else in the team. He will continue leading with his bat." Read Also | Virat Kohli transformed India into a ruthless unit that performed admirably: BCCI Secretary Jay Shah Replying on who can be the next Test captain, Dhumal said: "The decision to appoint a captain is taken by the selectors, not the office bearers. They would discuss among themselves on who will be the next Test captain." Kohli holds the record for most Test appearances as India Test captain (68) and he also holds the record for most Test wins by an Indian captain (40). Only Graeme Smith, Ricky Ponting, and Steve Waugh have won more matches than Kohli as captain in Test cricket. Kohli had first led the side in Test cricket in 2014 against Australia. His last game as captain was the Cape Town Test in South Africa, which India lost by seven wickets. Filling the shoes of MS Dhoni was not going to be easy, but Kohli took leadership by storm, and quickly cemented himself as one of the best thinkers the country has seen in Test cricket. The leadership also brought out the best in Kohli and it saw the batter registering seven double-centuries in the longest format of the game. Kohli also holds the record for scoring most Test centuries (20) as India captain.

Respect Virat Kohli's decision, Indian cricket would thrive under his mentorship: BCCI treasurer

<p>Virat Kohli on Saturday (January 15) left the entire cricket fraternity surprised as he announced that he will be stepping down as the Test captain of the Indian team. Kohli's decision to give up captaincy comes after India's 2-1 loss in the recently-concluded three-match Test series against South Africa.</p>

<p>Kohli had led the visitors in the first Test of the series where he inspired the team to a comprehensive win by 113 runs before missing the second game due to a back issue. Kohli returned to lead India in the series-deciding third and final Test but failed to help India clinch their maiden Test series win in South Africa as the hosts won the all-important game by seven wickets.</p>

<p>Kohli, who had given up India's T20I captaincy last year, had at the time expressed his desire to continue leading the team in both Tests and ODIs. However, he was replaced as the ODI captain ahead of the South Africa tour with Rohit Sharma taking over as India's new captain in limited-overs formats.</p>

<p>Kohli was later involved in a row with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) over his sacking as ODI captain and had also contradicted BCCI president Sourav Ganguly's comments in a fiery press conference ahead of the South Africa tour.</p>

<p>Nonetheless, Kohli, who has always maintained he likes to give his 120 percent when playing for India, led India exceptionally well in his final series as Test captain. Kohli said he will be can't be 'dishonest' to his team and not give his 120 per cent while announcing his decision to give up Test captaincy.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-steps-down-as-indias-test-captain-have-absolute-clarity-cant-be-dishonest-to-my-team-445047">Virat Kohli steps down as India's Test captain: Have absolute clarity, can't be dishonest to my team</a></p>

<p>Tributes started pouring in from all corners and fans, former cricketers and experts joined the bandwagon to congratulate Kohli on a magnificent stint as the Test captain of the Indian team. Kohli led India in 68 matches and won 40 games as captain to sign off as the most successful Indian skipper of all time.</p>

<p><strong>Twitter pays tribute to Virat Kohli:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">It’s been a remarkable journey King Kohli <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a>! Very few have been able to achieve what you have. Gave your all and played like a true champion each time. May you grow from strength to strength! Onwards and upwards</p>
— Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) <a href="https://twitter.com/YUVSTRONG12/status/1482361882732564481?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Whenever the talk of Indian cricket captains will arise in test cricket <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> ‘s name will be up there,not only for results but the kind of impact he had as a captain. Thank you <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohli</a></p>
— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) <a href="https://twitter.com/IrfanPathan/status/1482348365925195788?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">When Virat took over as Test captain, India winning a test overseas was an achievement, now if India lose an overseas test series it is an upset. And that's how far he has taken Indian cricket forward, and that will be his legacy. Congratulations on successful reign <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> <a href="https://t.co/My2MOXNwMc">pic.twitter.com/My2MOXNwMc</a></p>
— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) <a href="https://twitter.com/WasimJaffer14/status/1482347022976167940?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Although I also am shocked by <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> sudden decision, I respect his call. I can only applaud him for what he has done for world cricket &amp; India. Easily one of the most aggressive and fittest players India has had. Hope he’d continue to shine for India as a player. <a href="https://t.co/W9hJGAYqhv">pic.twitter.com/W9hJGAYqhv</a></p>
— Suresh Raina (@ImRaina) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRaina/status/1482354646689906690?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Many Congratulations <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohli</a> on an outstanding career as India's Test Captain. Stats don't lie &amp; he was not only the most successful Indian Test Captain but one of the most successful in the world. Can be very proud <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> &amp; looking forward to watch u dominate with the bat</p>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1482356922506711046?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">wins in Tests!<br />
<br />
Virat Kohli steps down as India's most successful Test captain<br />
<br />
Read more: <a href="https://t.co/D0qfZJLRjP">https://t.co/D0qfZJLRjP</a> <a href="https://t.co/2pnr6iJ7qd">pic.twitter.com/2pnr6iJ7qd</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1482348289584476167?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Virat, you can go with your head held high. Few have achieved what you have as captain. Definitely India's most aggressive and successful. Sad day for me personally as this is the team 🇮🇳 we built together - <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> <a href="https://t.co/lQC3LvekOf">pic.twitter.com/lQC3LvekOf</a></p>
— Ravi Shastri (@RaviShastriOfc) <a href="https://twitter.com/RaviShastriOfc/status/1482365980827594753?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> on a stunning run as the Indian captain. You can be very proud of what you have achieved so far, and for sure, your name will be up there among the best leaders in world cricket <a href="https://t.co/DieCKL4bhE">https://t.co/DieCKL4bhE</a></p>
— Sir Vivian Richards (@ivivianrichards) <a href="https://twitter.com/ivivianrichards/status/1482363332761841670?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Kohli took over Test captaincy full-time from MS Dhoni in the year 2014 and has since been instrumental in making India a powerhouse in the purest format. Kohli led India to some memorable wins both at home and overseas and was the first Indian captain to win a Test series in Australia.</p>


Virat Kohli on Saturday (January 15) left the entire cricket fraternity surprised as he announced that he will be stepping down as the Test captain of the Indian team.

Virat Kohli on Saturday (January 15) left the entire cricket fraternity surprised as he announced that he will be stepping down as the Test captain of the Indian team. Kohli's decision to give up captaincy comes after India's 2-1 loss in the recently-concluded three-match Test series against South Africa. Kohli had led the visitors in the first Test of the series where he inspired the team to a comprehensive win by 113 runs before missing the second game due to a back issue. Kohli returned to lead India in the series-deciding third and final Test but failed to help India clinch their maiden Test series win in South Africa as the hosts won the all-important game by seven wickets. Kohli, who had given up India's T20I captaincy last year, had at the time expressed his desire to continue leading the team in both Tests and ODIs. However, he was replaced as the ODI captain ahead of the South Africa tour with Rohit Sharma taking over as India's new captain in limited-overs formats. Kohli was later involved in a row with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) over his sacking as ODI captain and had also contradicted BCCI president Sourav Ganguly's comments in a fiery press conference ahead of the South Africa tour. Nonetheless, Kohli, who has always maintained he likes to give his 120 percent when playing for India, led India exceptionally well in his final series as Test captain. Kohli said he will be can't be 'dishonest' to his team and not give his 120 per cent while announcing his decision to give up Test captaincy. Also Read: Virat Kohli steps down as India's Test captain: Have absolute clarity, can't be dishonest to my team Tributes started pouring in from all corners and fans, former cricketers and experts joined the bandwagon to congratulate Kohli on a magnificent stint as the Test captain of the Indian team. Kohli led India in 68 matches and won 40 games as captain to sign off as the most successful Indian skipper of all time. Twitter pays tribute to Virat Kohli: It’s been a remarkable journey King Kohli @imVkohli! Very few have been able to achieve what you have. Gave your all and played like a true champion each time. May you grow from strength to strength! Onwards and upwards — Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) January 15, 2022 × Whenever the talk of Indian cricket captains will arise in test cricket @imVkohli ‘s name will be up there,not only for results but the kind of impact he had as a captain. Thank you #ViratKohli — Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) January 15, 2022 × When Virat took over as Test captain, India winning a test overseas was an achievement, now if India lose an overseas test series it is an upset. And that's how far he has taken Indian cricket forward, and that will be his legacy. Congratulations on successful reign @imVkohli pic.twitter.com/My2MOXNwMc — Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) January 15, 2022 × Although I also am shocked by @imVkohli sudden decision, I respect his call. I can only applaud him for what he has done for world cricket & India. Easily one of the most aggressive and fittest players India has had. Hope he’d continue to shine for India as a player. pic.twitter.com/W9hJGAYqhv — Suresh Raina (@ImRaina) January 15, 2022 × Many Congratulations #ViratKohli on an outstanding career as India's Test Captain. Stats don't lie & he was not only the most successful Indian Test Captain but one of the most successful in the world. Can be very proud @imVkohli & looking forward to watch u dominate with the bat — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) January 15, 2022 × wins in Tests! Virat Kohli steps down as India's most successful Test captain Read more: https://t.co/D0qfZJLRjP pic.twitter.com/2pnr6iJ7qd — ICC (@ICC) January 15, 2022 × Virat, you can go with your head held high. Few have achieved what you have as captain. Definitely India's most aggressive and successful. Sad day for me personally as this is the team 🇮🇳 we built together - @imVkohli pic.twitter.com/lQC3LvekOf — Ravi Shastri (@RaviShastriOfc) January 15, 2022 × Congratulations @imVkohli on a stunning run as the Indian captain. You can be very proud of what you have achieved so far, and for sure, your name will be up there among the best leaders in world cricket https://t.co/DieCKL4bhE — Sir Vivian Richards (@ivivianrichards) January 15, 2022 × Kohli took over Test captaincy full-time from MS Dhoni in the year 2014 and has since been instrumental in making India a powerhouse in the purest format. Kohli led India to some memorable wins both at home and overseas and was the first Indian captain to win a Test series in Australia.

'Few have achieved what you did': Tributes pour in on Twitter as Virat Kohli gives up India's Test captaincy

<p>The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has lauded Virat Kohli after he announced that he will be stepping down as the Test captain of the Indian team. Kohli's decision has sent shockwaves around the cricket fraternity as the 33-year-old had recently led India in the three-match series against South Africa.</p>

<p>Kohli's decision comes after India lost the recently-concluded Test series against South Africa 2-1. He had last year stepped down as the T20I captain of the team while expressing his desire to continue leading India in both ODIs and Tests. However, he was later sacked as the ODI captain with Rohit Sharma taking over as the new limited-overs captain of the side.</p>

<p>Kohli was also involved in a controversial row with BCCI over his sacking as ODI captain and had publicly contradicted the comments made by BCCI president Sourav Ganguly. Kohli had also claimed he was informed about the decision of being sacked as ODI captain only 90 minutes before it was made official.</p>

<p>Nobody would have expected Kohli to give up Test captaincy at the start of the year after having led the team to greater heights under his leadership. He made India a dominant force in the longest format and inspired the team to some memorable victories both at home and overseas.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-steps-down-as-indias-test-captain-have-absolute-clarity-cant-be-dishonest-to-my-team-445047">Virat Kohli steps down as India's Test captain: Have absolute clarity, can't be dishonest to my team</a></p>

<p>Kohli signs off as India's most successful Test captain ahead of the likes of MS Dhoni and Mohammad Azharuddin with 40 wins in a total of 68 matches. Reacting to his decision to leave Test captaincy, BCCI took to Twitter to thank Kohli for his 'admirable leadership qualities' and for taking India to 'unprecedented heights' in Test cricket.</p>

<p>"BCCI congratulates #TeamIndia captain&nbsp;@imVkohli for his admirable leadership qualities that took the Test team to unprecedented heights. He led India in 68 matches and has been the most successful captain with 40 wins," BCCI wrote in a tweet.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">BCCI congratulates <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> captain <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> for his admirable leadership qualities that took the Test team to unprecedented heights. He led India in 68 matches and has been the most successful captain with 40 wins. <a href="https://t.co/oRV3sgPQ2G">https://t.co/oRV3sgPQ2G</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1482342717288239105?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>BCCI now faces a huge task to appoint a worthy successor to Kohli for India in Tests ahead of the Sri Lanka series at home which gets underway next month. Rohit Sharma or KL Rahul might take over as the new captain of the Indian Test side after Kohli's shocking announcement.</p>

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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has lauded Virat Kohli after he announced that he will be stepping down as the Test captain of the Indian team. Kohli's decision has sent shockwaves around the cricket fraternity as the 33-year-old had recently led India in the three-match series against South Africa.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has lauded Virat Kohli after he announced that he will be stepping down as the Test captain of the Indian team. Kohli's decision has sent shockwaves around the cricket fraternity as the 33-year-old had recently led India in the three-match series against South Africa. Kohli's decision comes after India lost the recently-concluded Test series against South Africa 2-1. He had last year stepped down as the T20I captain of the team while expressing his desire to continue leading India in both ODIs and Tests. However, he was later sacked as the ODI captain with Rohit Sharma taking over as the new limited-overs captain of the side. Kohli was also involved in a controversial row with BCCI over his sacking as ODI captain and had publicly contradicted the comments made by BCCI president Sourav Ganguly. Kohli had also claimed he was informed about the decision of being sacked as ODI captain only 90 minutes before it was made official. Nobody would have expected Kohli to give up Test captaincy at the start of the year after having led the team to greater heights under his leadership. He made India a dominant force in the longest format and inspired the team to some memorable victories both at home and overseas. Also Read: Virat Kohli steps down as India's Test captain: Have absolute clarity, can't be dishonest to my team Kohli signs off as India's most successful Test captain ahead of the likes of MS Dhoni and Mohammad Azharuddin with 40 wins in a total of 68 matches. Reacting to his decision to leave Test captaincy, BCCI took to Twitter to thank Kohli for his 'admirable leadership qualities' and for taking India to 'unprecedented heights' in Test cricket. "BCCI congratulates #TeamIndia captain @imVkohli for his admirable leadership qualities that took the Test team to unprecedented heights. He led India in 68 matches and has been the most successful captain with 40 wins," BCCI wrote in a tweet. BCCI congratulates #TeamIndia captain @imVkohli for his admirable leadership qualities that took the Test team to unprecedented heights. He led India in 68 matches and has been the most successful captain with 40 wins. https://t.co/oRV3sgPQ2G — BCCI (@BCCI) January 15, 2022 × BCCI now faces a huge task to appoint a worthy successor to Kohli for India in Tests ahead of the Sri Lanka series at home which gets underway next month. Rohit Sharma or KL Rahul might take over as the new captain of the Indian Test side after Kohli's shocking announcement.

BCCI lauds Virat Kohli for 'admirable leadership' as he signs off as India's most successful Test captain

<p>In a shocking development, Virat Kohli has announced he will be stepping down as the captain of the Indian cricket team.&nbsp;Kohli took to Twitter on Saturday (January 15) to announce that his journey as the Test captain of the Indian team has come to a halt now.</p>

<p>The decision comes as a shock to may as Kohli had led India extremely well in the recently-concluded Test series against South Africa. Though the visitors lost the three-match Test series 2-1, they had come close to pulling off a historic maiden Test series win in the Rainbow nation after winning the series-opener in Centurion comfortably by 113 runs.</p>

<p>Kohli, who had left India's T20I captaincy last year, had been replaced by Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain of the team ahead of the country's tour of South Africa. Kohli had then gone on to counter comments made by BCCI president Sourav Ganguly about the change in captaincy as a controversy had erupted following the Indian cricket board's move to sack the 33-year-old from ODI captaincy.</p>

<p>While he refused to reveal the exact reason why he is giving up the Test captaincy of the Indian team, Kohli said he has always believed in giving his 120 per cent for the team and can't be dishonest with his team if he cannot give his all. The batting maestro also said he has absolute clarity in his heart about the decision which has sent shockwaves across the cricketing fraternity.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-are-like-family-pakistan-star-mohammad-rizwan-hails-virat-kohli-calls-him-number-one-in-the-world-445038">'We are like family': Pakistan star Mohammad Rizwan hails Virat Kohli, calls him number one in the world</a></p>

<p>"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. Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test Captain of India, it's now," Kohli said in a statement on Twitter.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>Kohli also went on to thank former India captain MS Dhoni, who had decided to hand over India's Test captaincy to Kohli permanently in 2014, and head coach Ravi Shastri, who along with him helped India become a force to reckon with in the longest format. India went on to secure some memorable Test wins under the leadership of Kohli and Shastri.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-doubt-about-that-virat-kohli-explains-reason-behind-indias-2-1-defeat-in-test-series-vs-south-africa-444752">&nbsp;'No doubt about that': Virat Kohli explains reason behind India's 2-1 defeat in Test series vs South Africa</a></p>

<p>"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.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="und"><a href="https://t.co/huBL6zZ7fZ">pic.twitter.com/huBL6zZ7fZ</a></p>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1482340422987169794?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Kohli led India in a total of 68 Test matches and signs off as the most successful Indian captain with an impressive 40 wins to his name. He led India to their maiden Test series win on Australian soil in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in 2018-19 which remains among India's best Test victories of all time.</p>

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In a shocking development, Virat Kohli has announced he will be stepping down as the captain of the Indian cricket team. Kohli took to Twitter on Saturday (January 15) to announce that his journey as the Test captain of the Indian team has come to a halt now.

In a shocking development, Virat Kohli has announced he will be stepping down as the captain of the Indian cricket team. Kohli took to Twitter on Saturday (January 15) to announce that his journey as the Test captain of the Indian team has come to a halt now. The decision comes as a shock to may as Kohli had led India extremely well in the recently-concluded Test series against South Africa. Though the visitors lost the three-match Test series 2-1, they had come close to pulling off a historic maiden Test series win in the Rainbow nation after winning the series-opener in Centurion comfortably by 113 runs. Kohli, who had left India's T20I captaincy last year, had been replaced by Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain of the team ahead of the country's tour of South Africa. Kohli had then gone on to counter comments made by BCCI president Sourav Ganguly about the change in captaincy as a controversy had erupted following the Indian cricket board's move to sack the 33-year-old from ODI captaincy. While he refused to reveal the exact reason why he is giving up the Test captaincy of the Indian team, Kohli said he has always believed in giving his 120 per cent for the team and can't be dishonest with his team if he cannot give his all. The batting maestro also said he has absolute clarity in his heart about the decision which has sent shockwaves across the cricketing fraternity. Also Read: 'We are like family': Pakistan star Mohammad Rizwan hails Virat Kohli, calls him number one in the world "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. Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test Captain of India, it's now," Kohli said in a statement 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. 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. Kohli also went on to thank former India captain MS Dhoni, who had decided to hand over India's Test captaincy to Kohli permanently in 2014, and head coach Ravi Shastri, who along with him helped India become a force to reckon with in the longest format. India went on to secure some memorable Test wins under the leadership of Kohli and Shastri. Also Read: 'No doubt about that': Virat Kohli explains reason behind India's 2-1 defeat in Test series vs South Africa "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. pic.twitter.com/huBL6zZ7fZ — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) January 15, 2022 × Kohli led India in a total of 68 Test matches and signs off as the most successful Indian captain with an impressive 40 wins to his name. He led India to their maiden Test series win on Australian soil in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in 2018-19 which remains among India's best Test victories of all time.

Virat Kohli steps down as India's Test captain: Have absolute clarity, can't be dishonest to my team