Table of Contents
After the demanding ODI World Cup 2023, India’s premier batter, Virat Kohli, has chosen to take a break, resulting in his absence from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI’s) ODI and T20I squads for the upcoming tour of South Africa. This decision aligns with Rohit Sharma, who also opted to skip the white-ball leg. However, both stalwarts will rejoin the Indian squad for the Test matches following the white-ball fixtures.
Virat Kohli’s legacy in ODI World Cup 2023
In the recently-concluded CWC 2023, Kohli, nearing the twilight of his illustrious career, was the standout performer. Recognized as the Player of the Tournament, the 35-year-old showcased his exceptional skills, contributing significantly to India’s campaign. Kohli’s absence from the initial part of the South Africa tour raises questions about his future in cricket.
Ab de Villiers’ insights on Kohli’s break
AB de Villiers, Kohli’s longtime teammate and friend from Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), shared his perspective on Kohli’s absence from the white-ball games and discussed the path that lies ahead for the Indian cricket stalwart.
“I hope he continues to play ODIs and Tests. I’m sure he has got a plan in place. It’s very reasonable and normal for him to be tired, to feel like it’s time for him to unfold that final chapter in a way. I don’t exactly know how long he will play for but I would like it to be for as long as possible,” De Villiers was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times.
“He’s been incredible to watch and we all want to see a little bit more of him. The South Africa series is important to him, and he might play a few, rest and sit out a few and find a way to manage himself leading up to the end of his career,” the 39-year-old added.
Also READ: SA vs IND: Sai Sudarshan shares his initial thoughts on making it to India’s ODI squad for the South Africa tour
De Villiers’ optimistic wish
De Villiers continued to shower praise on Kohli and expressed his wish that Kohli’s career has a few more impactful years remaining.
“At a very early stage, Virat found a way to master his own game, understand what works for him and he has taken that into the highest-pressure moments. It’s a privilege to have shared the dressing room with him, partnerships with him and some incredible moments with him. He’s a fantastic player and long may that continue. Hopefully, that career has got a few more years in it,” the Pretoria-born cricketer concluded.
