Kohli steps down as India Test captain

Virat Kohli has announced his decision to step down as captain of India’s Test team with immediate effect. Kohli first led the side in Test cricket in 2014, against Australia, and has primarily held the role since then. His last game as captain was the Cape Town Test in South Africa, which India lost by seven wickets.

Taking to Twitter, Kohli said after “7 years of hard work, toil and relentless perseverance everyday to take the team in the right direction”, the time had come for him to step aside.

“Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test Captain of India, it’s now,” he said.

“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.

“I want to thank the BCCI for giving me the opportunity to lead my country for such a long period of time and more importantly to all the teammates who bought into the vision I had for the team from day one and never gave up in any situation.

You guys have made this journey so memorable and beautiful. 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.” (ESPNcricinfo)