Virat Kohli, the former captain of the Royal Challengers Bangalore, has been replaced with Faf du Plessis. The South African will lead the franchise in IPL 2022. 

When asked if Kohli will captain the side again, RCB coach Daniel Vettori had said that the former Indian skipper will not. 

“No (Kohli will not return as captain). I think it is as simple as that. I don’t think that ever works, let alone in franchise cricket or international cricket. Once the captain is moved on, the right thing is for him to move on,” Vettori told ESPNCricinfo last week. 

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Kohli had stepped down as India’s T20I and Test skipper too. He was sacked from the position in ODIs. 

Reacting on Du Plessis being appointed as the new RCB captain, Virat Kohli, in a video posted by the franchise on social media, said that he is excited to play under the former Protea skipper. 

Also read: Not Kohli or Dhoni: RCB skipper Du Plessis set to lead in his own style

“I couldn’t be happier to pass on the baton to a good friend, someone I’ve known over the years. We’ve been in touch for many years now. He’s one of the few guys I’ve gotten to know a little bit more apart from the cricket. My partnership with Faf is going to be exciting. The squad we’ve put together is amazing. Our team looks balanced and strong, and I can’t wait to get started,” Kohli added. 

RCB’s Director of Cricket Operations Mike Hesson revealed the reason why Kohli will never captain the franchise again. 

Hesson revealed that Kohli wants to enjoy his time as a senior player and as a batsman. 

Also read: Virat Kohli changed Indian cricket: Royal Challengers Bangalore captain Faf du Plessis

“Virat has given absolutely everything to this franchise as a captain. He has given his heart and soul. It is pretty apparent that when you resign from a role, you want a break. He wants to enjoy his time at RCB as a senior player and as a batsman and we are very respectful of that as well,” said Hesson at the even on Saturday.

However, Henson and Vettori both said that Kohli will be  one among the leadership group. 

“Just because the situation has changed within here doesn’t mean that the situation has changed in terms of him wanting to come and win games for RCB. We spoke to Virat about the leadership options and Faf was someone he was really excited about. I have also leaned on AB de Villiers for his thoughts as well,” he added.