Virat Kohli, the eminent Indian cricketer and standout performer as the leading run-scorer in the recently concluded 2023 ODI World Cup, is reportedly opting for a hiatus from white-ball cricket. However, he is gearing up to participate in the two Test matches during the imminent South Africa tour.
As per The Indian Express, Kohli has communicated his decision to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), expressing his unavailability for the white-ball fixtures scheduled in South Africa.
The upcoming South Africa tour encompasses a trilogy of T20Is followed by a tri-series of ODIs. Subsequently, it culminates with the Boxing Day and New Year Tests slated at Centurion and Cape Town, respectively.
The source, quoted in the report, revealed, "He (Kohli) has informed the BCCI and selectors that he needs a break from white-ball cricket and he will get back to them about when he wants to play white ball cricket next. At the moment he has informed the BCCI that he will be playing red-ball cricket, which means he is available for selection for the two Test matches in South Africa."
Kohli's exceptional performance in the ODI World Cup, where he amassed a staggering total of 765 runs in 11 innings, has placed him in the spotlight. This exceptional feat included three centuries, eclipsing the record set by the legendary Sachin Tendulkar for the most ODI centuries by a batter. Presently, Kohli is enjoying a vacation in London following his remarkable World Cup campaign.
Prior to the World Cup, Kohli, along with Rohit Sharma, was granted a break from the first two ODIs against Australia in September. However, the duo made a return for the final game of the series held in Rajkot.
The report further indicated that there is no definitive confirmation regarding skipper Rohit Sharma's availability for the white-ball fixtures during the impending South Africa tour, which commences on December 10.
