2 (74)

Picture Credit: BCCI

In a possible move that could change the fate of Indian limited-overs cricket in the coming months, it is being learned that current India captain Virat Kohli is likely to step down from that role after T20 World Cup. Virat, however, is expected to remain the captain in Test match cricket. With Virat stepping down after the showpiece event in October-November, this should pave the way for his vice-captain in ODIs and T20Is Rohit Sharma to take up the responsibility.

Notably, the 32-year-old Kohli, who is currently leading the team across all formats and has impressive stats in all forms, has reportedly taken the decision himself to share the leadership duties with the 34-year-old Rohit. The same was confirmed via sources from BCCI who were quoted in a Times of India report.

Virat wants to go back to becoming best batsman in the world: Sources

The report further claims that Kohli has had extended discussions with Rohit and the team management over the final few months, especially after India registered a win in Australia when he was on a paternity break.

"Virat himself will make the announcement. He is of the view that he needs to concentrate on his batting and go back to becoming what he’s always been — the best batsman in the world," TOI quoted sources.

While the development is a huge one in the context of Indian cricket and is set to take social media by storm, BCCI has apparently been preparing for this moment.

Virat to focus on his batting keeping in mind two more World Cups in next two years

The Times of India's report goes on to suggest that since there could be all kinds of speculations, that is the reason BCCI is planning this well in advance. The sources added that eventually Virat and Rohit are on the same page. As per the report, Kohli feels that his batting is getting affected due to captaincy in all three formats and this could be a reason behind the decision to step down. He wants to be in prime form given India needs to play two more World Cups in 2022 (T20) and 2023 (ODI).

"It will wrap up a historic Test cycle from an India perspective. Virat is also the first to realise that his overall responsibilities as captain across formats are taking a toll on his batting. He needs that space and freshness because he has a lot more to offer. If Rohit takes over as white-ball captain, Virat can continue leading India’s red-ball aspirations and work on his T20 and One-day batting. He’s just 32 and given his fitness, he will easily play top cricket for another five to six years at least,” sources have been quoted as saying.