BCCI pays tribute to ‘one of the finest captains’ to lead India
Having taken over the Test captaincy from MS Dhoni in 2014, Virat Kohli has been India's most successful Test captain ever, and his decision to step down from the role has taken quite a few by surprise. Kohli stated in his tweet that "it's been 7 years of hard work, toil and relentless perseverance everyday to take the team in the right direction"
He oversaw India's rise to No.1 in the ICC Test Rankings and led them to the finals of the inaugural World Test Championship final. A first series win in Australia in 2018 was among India's finest moments in Test cricket under Kohli's leadership. With him announcing his decision to step down as Test captain, tributes poured in from several quarters, including those in an administrative capacity in the BCCI.
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“I personally thank Virat for his immense contributions as captain of the Indian cricket team.," Sourav Ganguly, President of BCCI, stated. "Under his leadership, the Indian cricket team has made rapid strides in all formats of the game. His decision is a personal one and the BCCI respects it immensely. He will continue to be a very important member of this team and take this team to newer heights with his contributions with the bat under a new Captain. Every good thing comes to an end and this has been a very good one.”
****“A cricketer like Virat comes once in a generation and Indian cricket is fortunate to have him serve the team as a leader. He captained the side with passion and aggression and played a pivotal part in many of India’s memorable wins at home and abroad. We wish him the best for his career ahead," noted BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla.
“Virat Kohli has been one of the finest captains to have ever led the Indian cricket team," said Jay Shah, secretary of the BCCI. "His record and contribution towards the team as a leader has been second to none. To lead India in 40 Test wins is proof that he led the side with aplomb. He led the team to some of its finest Test match wins in India and overseas – including Australia, England, West Indies, Sri Lanka and South Africa – and his efforts will inspire the fellow and upcoming cricketers who aspire to represent the country. We wish Virat the best for the future and hope that he will continue to make memorable contributions on the field for the Indian team”.