Star Indian batsman Virat Kohli, hailed as the top run-scorer in the 2023 Men’s ODI World Cup and rightfully crowned the Player of the Tournament, is set to take a hiatus from white-ball cricket. However, fans can still look forward to his presence in the upcoming South Africa tour's two Test matches.
According to a report by The Indian Express, the 35-year-old Kohli has communicated to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) that he won't be participating in the white-ball matches during the South Africa tour. The tour kicks off with a three-match T20I series, followed by a three-game ODI series, culminating in the Boxing Day and New Year Tests at Centurion and Cape Town.
The report quotes its source as saying that Kohli has informed the BCCI and selectors that he needs a break from white-ball cricket and he will get back to them about when he wants to play white ball cricket next. He has also informed the selectors that he will get back to them about when he wants to play white ball cricket next.
Kohli's stellar performance in the Men’s ODI World Cup saw him accumulate an impressive 765 runs in 11 innings, including three centuries. Notably, he surpassed the legendary Sachin Tendulkar for the most number of ODI centuries by a batter. Currently enjoying a holiday in London, Kohli had previously taken a break with Rohit Sharma before the World Cup, returning for the final game of the ODI series against Australia in Rajkot.
While Kohli's break is confirmed, there is still uncertainty regarding skipper Rohit Sharma's availability for the white-ball matches in the South Africa tour starting on December 10. Like Kohli, Rohit is also on a break in the United Kingdom post the World Cup. The report suggests that BCCI secretary Jay Shah will soon be in discussion with Rohit and chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar to outline the future roadmap for the Indian team.
(With agency inputs))
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