Batting maestro Virat Kohli, who starred in the recently concluded ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2023, will be absent from the forthcoming three-match T20I and three-match ODI series against South Africa scheduled for next month. The 35-year-old prolific run-scorer, who amassed a remarkable 765 runs in 11 matches during the ODI World Cup, has opted for a break from white-ball cricket, rendering him unavailable for selection in the upcoming white-ball leg of the away series.
However, the former India captain will be available for the two-match Test series, commencing on December 26 at SuperSport Park in Centurion. According to a report in the Indian Express, Kohli has communicated his decision to take a hiatus from white-ball cricket to the BCCI.
“Kohli has informed the BCCI and selectors that he needs a break from white-ball cricket, and he will inform them when he intends to resume playing white-ball cricket. Currently, he has informed the BCCI that he will be focusing on red-ball cricket, making him available for selection for the two Test matches in South Africa,” a source revealed to Indian Express.
ALSO READ: Ruturaj Gaikwad Defends Prasidh Krishna Despite Expensive Spell In India’s Loss
Following India’s heartbreaking six-wicket defeat to Australia in the ODI World Cup final, Kohli is currently enjoying a break in London. Indian skipper Rohit Sharma is also in London, and at present, there is no confirmation regarding Rohit’s availability for the white-ball series against the Proteas. Rohit had led India to a remarkable 10 consecutive wins in the ODI World Cup before the final setback.
Reportedly, Virat Kohli asked for rest from the white ball formwt series against South Africa.#ViratKohli #INDvSA #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/2nxh71jHoo
— RCBIANS OFFICIAL (@RcbianOfficial) November 29, 2023
In the event that Rohit also decides to opt out of the white-ball series against South Africa, wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul would emerge as the frontrunner to lead the side. Rahul served as India’s white-ball captain during the 2022 tour of South Africa, stepping in after Kohli stepped down from his role and Rohit was sidelined due to injury. The selectors may also consider Jasprit Bumrah for the captaincy role.
WATCH – Jake Fraser-McGurk Recalled After Umpiring Blunder In Sheffield Shield Clash
India’s tour of South Africa will kick off with a three-match T20I series, with the opening match set to be played on December 10 in Durban. The three ODIs are scheduled to take place in Johannesburg, Gqeberha, and Paarl on December 17, 19, and 21, respectively.
