Virat Kohli had no pressure from the BCCI, could have continued few more years as Test captain: Treasurer Arun Dhumal

Virat Kohli’s resignation as Test captain took the entire cricket world by storm. India’s most successful skipper in the format, Kohli took to Twitter on Saturday (January 15) and informed about his major decision. Notably, the talismanic cricketer’s announcement came a day after India’s Test series defeat against South Africa. Hence, speculations rife that Kohli might have taken the decision under the pressure of BCCI.

It must be noted that Kohli was unceremoniously sacked as India’s ODI captain last month. While announcing his decision to quit T20I captaincy after the T20 World Cup 2021, the 33-year-old mentioned that he would continue leading the team in the other two formats. Hence, BCCI’s decision of giving the reins to Rohit Sharma raised a lot of eyebrows.

This controversy was further fueled by contradicting statements from Kohli and BCCI president Sourav Ganguly. Owing to all these factors, a section of fans thought BCCI have a hand in Kohli’s shocking decision. However, BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal cleared the air by confirming that the board didn’t ask the veteran cricketer to step down.

Virat Kohli could have carried on for another two to three years as Test captain: Arun Dhumal

Dhumal even stated Kohli could have continued leading the Test team for few more years. “Virat Kohli had no pressure from the BCCI or selectors to step down. It’s his decision and we respect that, but he could have carried on for another two to three years as captain,” Arun Dhumal was quoted as saying by News18.

Meanwhile, Kohli, while announcing his decision, thanked BCCI for giving him the opportunity of leading the team. He also expressed gratitude towards former Indian coach Ravi Shastri and ex-captain MS Dhoni for supporting him in his journey.

“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,” stated Kohli.

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— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) January 15, 2022

“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,” he added.