Former India Selector Questions Virat Kohli’s Exclusion from Test Captaincy


July 10, 2023 12:57 pm

Former India chief selector, MSK Prasad, expressed his reservations about the selectors’ decision to overlook Virat Kohli for the Test captaincy position once again. This comes as Rohit Sharma continues to lead the Indian team in the longest format of the game, having taken over from Kohli in January 2022 following a disappointing series loss to South Africa. Kohli had previously resigned as the limited-overs captain and was subsequently removed as the ODI captain.

During an exclusive interview with Khel Now, Prasad was asked about the possibility of Hardik Pandya assuming the white-ball captaincy in the future, as well as Rohit’s continued role as the Test team’s leader. 

Prasad responded with uncertainty, pointing out that the selectors’ mindset is likely focused on the new World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, which spans from 2023 to 2025. It is worth noting that Hardik has been appointed as the captain for the upcoming T20 series against the West Indies, as well as the vice-captain for the ODIs. Follow your favourite cricket team with attractive betting odds from Gclub.

“I cannot definitively answer this question. I am unaware of the selectors’ mindset. Ideally, with the advent of the new WTC cycle, the selectors should adopt a clear and focused approach,” remarked Prasad during the interview.

When asked about the possibility of a young all-rounder taking over the captaincy from Rohit, Prasad highlighted the case of Ajinkya Rahane, who made a remarkable comeback as the Test team’s vice-captain. The 48-year-old former cricketer further suggested that if the selectors are considering options beyond Rohit, Kohli could also be a strong contender.

“Why shouldn’t Virat Kohli be considered? If Ajinkya Rahane can make a comeback and assume the vice-captaincy, then why not Virat Kohli? I am uncertain about Virat’s own perspective on captaincy. If the selectors are indeed contemplating alternatives to Rohit, then I believe Virat can also be a viable choice,” added Prasad.

Presently, Virat Kohli is in the Caribbean nation as part of India’s multi-format series against the West Indies. The tour will commence with a two-match Test series, scheduled to be held in Dominica and Trinidad. Known for his extraordinary skills and unwavering commitment to the game, the former India captain is expected to play a significant role in the upcoming series. Get the latest updates from the world of cricket only on Gclub Sports.