Since June 2017, Virat Kohli has played 21 ODIs, three Tests and three T20Is.
Considering Kohli would be playing the remaining two ODIs against New Zealand, he would be ending playing 23 ODIs. After the New Zealand tour, India is set to play against Sri Lanka in 3 Tests, 3 ODIs and 3 T20Is from November to December.
Post that they would also be touring South Africa from January to February. And with the hectic schedule in place and focus on the South Africa series, the Indian skipper demands a break indeed. Kohli has told the BCCI about the same, “Kohli has informed the BCCI that there are some personal reasons and that is why he won’t be available in the month of December. Kohli has been playing non-stop cricket for quite sometimes now and he certainly would like to be fresh for South Africa tour in January,” a board official was quoted by Indian Express.
As per the reports, if Kohli is rested for Sri Lanka tour of India, Ajinkya Rahane will don the captain’s hat. The last time when Kohli missed a Test for India was in Dharamsala last year against Australia and then Rahane being the vice-captain led the Indian side.
Kohli even questioned about his hectic schedule during the press-conference post the first ODI against New Zealand. New Zealand has not played any international game since the conclusion of ICC Champions Trophy. Their outcome in the ODI series would be better than the Indian side, opined Kohli.
