On November 30, the BCCI announced India’s Test, ODI, and T20I squads for the South Africa tour. However, what took everyone by surprise was the exclusion of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma from the T20 side. While both have secured spots in the Test squad, they are notably absent from the white-ball teams.
The last appearance of these two stalwarts in the T20 format was during the T20 World Cup 2022 semi-final. Following India’s 10-wicket loss against England, Kohli and Sharma have been conspicuously absent from T20Is. What could be the reason behind their continuous absence?
Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma on holiday after World Cup 2023
Virat Kohli is currently enjoying a holiday in London with his pregnant wife, Anushka Sharma, and their daughter, Vamika. Also, the 50-ODI-century-scorer has communicated to the BCCI that he will be taking a break from the white-ball format for a certain period. As a result, he is absent from the white-ball squad for the upcoming South Africa series.
Rohit Sharma is also spending time with his family in the UK. The Indian skipper posted a picture on his Instagram handle posing with his wife Ritika. As per BCCI sources, he was offered to lead the Indian T20 team against South Africa but requested a break. The report also stated that he is the first choice for captain’s role in T20 World Cup 2024.
“Rohit has been offered T20 captaincy but he is in UK on a holiday and wants an extended break after four months of gruelling season till end of the World Cup. But as captain, he has the highest respect for the dressing room and if he agrees to lead India in T20 World Cup, he will lead,” the BCCI source stated.
WATCH VIDEO: Jitesh Sharma’s shot hits Umpire, the Indian batter gets no run
The current scenarios may give rise to rumors that BCCI is overlooking Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in the T20I format, but the reality is quite the opposite. The Indian Board is keen on providing ample opportunities to young players in preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup. The selection strategy is based on performance, allowing the board to identify and pick the best squad. It’s worth noting that Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, as prominent members, are certain to secure direct entry into the tournament