Virat Kohli on Thursday announced that he will step down as India’s T20I captain after the ICC T20 World Cup in UAE and Oman in October-November. The Indian captain took to social media to confirm the developments.

Kohli said he had lengthy discussions with head coach Ravi Shastri and white-ball skipper Rohit before coming to the conclusion that he needs to concentrate more on ODI and Test cricket both as a batsman and as captain to take the team to new heights.

Also read: Virat Kohli to step down as India’s T20 Captain after T20 World Cup

In a tweet, Kohli said, “After a lot of contemplation and discussion with my close people, Ravi bhai and also Rohit, who have been an essential part of the leadership group, I have decided to step down as the T20 captain after this T20 World Cup in Dubai in October.”

However, Kohli confirmed that he will continue to be a part of India’s T20I team as a player.

“I have also spoken to the BCCI secretary Jay Shah and president Sourav Ganguly along with all the selectors at the same time. I will continue to serve Indian cricket team and the Indian team to the best of ability,” Kohli added.

Reacting to this, several social media users posted congratulatory messages to Virat Kohli.

In a tweet, former Indian cricketer Reema Malhotra said, “That is a big brave call. Virat loves and wishes to focus on the team’s performance in the longest format. Big achievement for him has been the increased fitness level of the entire squad. Good luck for the road ahead @imVkohli @ImRo45 @RaviShastriOfc #TeamIndia #ViratKohli”

BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla said,”Virat Kohli’s contribution to the Indian T20 cricket team as captain was immense. It can never be forgotten. This is his personal decision and we respect it. @imVkohli @BCCI.”

“@imVkohli we are with you in your Decision. I am sure we will win this #worldcup under your captaincy. Wish you All the best. #captaincy,” Munaf Patel said

Meanwhile, Harsha Bhogle said, “Virat’s intensity was insane. I had thought he would give up the captaincy of #RCB which would give him two months off as leader. Hopefully this can give his mind the rest it needs and who knows, find him another peak as a T20 batsman.”