Virat Kohli’s Break from White-Ball Cricket: Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli has communicated to the BCCI his decision to take an indefinite break from White-ball cricket. As a result, Kohli is set to miss the upcoming white-ball leg of India’s tour to South Africa, including the three-match T20I series against Afghanistan in January. Kohli’s focus will shift exclusively to red-ball cricket, and he has made himself available for the two Tests in South Africa.
Rohit Sharma’s Uncertain White-Ball Future:
While Kohli takes a step back from white-ball cricket, there is no clarity on the availability of India’s captain, Rohit Sharma, for the white-ball leg of the South Africa tour. Both Kohli and Sharma haven’t played T20 cricket since the 2022 T20 World Cup. The upcoming World Cup in June has sparked discussions about their return, but the current indications suggest their absence from T20Is and a potentially bleak future in ODIs.
White-Ball Schedule and Future Plans:
India’s white-ball schedule includes three T20Is and as many ODIs in South Africa, followed by a two-match Test series. Kohli and Sharma are expected to feature in the Test matches. However, the future of their participation in T20Is and ODIs seems uncertain, with limited white-ball action lined up until the T20 World Cup. The duo is currently on holiday in the UK with their families.
White-Ball Future Assessment:
The BCCI is likely to announce India’s squads for the South Africa tour soon. With only six T20Is and three ODIs scheduled until June, Kohli and Sharma’s decision not to participate may not significantly impact their overall white-ball prospects. A clearer picture of their future in white-ball cricket is anticipated after the T20 World Cup when India is set to play a T20I and ODI series in Sri Lanka.
Rahul Dravid’s Contract Extension:
In a separate development, the BCCI has extended the contract of India’s head coach, Rahul Dravid, along with his support staff. The extension was unanimously agreed upon, acknowledging Dravid’s instrumental role in shaping the Indian team. Dravid, appointed in November 2021 for a two-year period, expressed pride in the team’s culture and camaraderie during his tenure. The duration of the new term was not specified.
Conclusion: Virat Kohli’s decision to step away from white-ball cricket and the uncertainty surrounding Rohit Sharma’s role brings significant developments to India’s cricket landscape. With limited white-ball fixtures in the coming months, the focus now shifts to the BCCI’s squad announcements and the team’s preparations for the upcoming South Africa tour.