Indian cricketer Virat Kohli, the highest run-scorer at the recently-concluded World Cup, has decided to take a break and will not be available for selection in the white-ball games during India's upcoming tour of South Africa as per a report. The tour kicks off with a T20 International on December 10 in Durban, featuring three T20 internationals, three ODIs, and two Test matches.
In a report by The Indian Express, it was stated that while Kohli won't be participating in the limited-over matches, he is likely to play both Test matches. The decision for Kohli's break was communicated to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
“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,” a source was quoted as saying by The Indian Express.
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During the recent World Cup in India, Kohli showcased excellent form, amassing 765 runs in 11 innings, including three centuries, and was named the player of the tournament. Currently on holiday in London, Kohli has been playing continuously for the past few months. His last break was before the World Cup in September, where he, along with captain Rohit Sharma, was rested for the first two ODIs against Australia at home.
As for Rohit Sharma, who led the Indian team to 10 consecutive wins in the World Cup before the final loss, there is no clarity on his availability for white-ball selection in the South Africa tour. Rohit is currently on a break in the United Kingdom. The BCCI secretary, Jay Shah, is expected to discuss the future roadmap with Rohit and chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar soon.