As the news of Virat Kohli’s decision to step down as India’s T20 captain post the 2021 World Cup settles, a report has emerged that the 32-year-old, during his tenure, wanted deputy Rohit Sharma to be replaced by KL Rahul in the ODI format. Now that Kohli steps down, Sharma is being seen as the forerunner for the vacant post. 

“It is also being said that Kohli went to the selection committee with a proposal that Rohit be removed from the ODI vice-captaincy as he is 34,” a PTI report stated. 

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It further added that Kohli wanted the ODI vice-captaincy to be handed to K L Rahul with Rishabh Pant performing the role in the T20 format. KL Rahul is 29 while Rishabh Pant is 23 years old. 

While the report does not name anyone specific but quotes a board official stating, “This didn’t go down well with the Board which believes that Kohli doesn’t want an actual successor”.

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As per the report, Kohli knew that he would have been removed from white ball captaincy.  If the team doesn’t do well at the UAE World T20, he was gone for good as far as white-ball leadership is concerned,” a BCCI insider told PTI.

“He just reduced a bit of pressure on himself as it would seem that he is there on his own terms. It might not happen for 50 overs if the performance in T20 hits a downward spiral,” he said.

Indian batting great Sunil Gavaskar also believes that KL Rahul should be groomed as the future leader of the Indian side. 

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“It’s a good thing that the BCCI is looking ahead. It’s important to think ahead,” Gavaskar said on Sports Tak.

“If India are looking to groom a new captain, then KL Rahul can be looked at. He has performed well. Even now in England, his batting was very good. He has been performing well in IPL and 50-overs cricket as well at the international stage. He can be made vice-captain.”

“He has shown very impressive leadership qualities in the IPL. He hasn’t let the burden of captaincy affect his batting. His name can be taken into consideration,” added Gavaskar.