Virat Kohli takes an indefinite break from T20Is; Here's why he has taken this decision

Former Indian skipper and one of the top batters in modern-day cricket, Virat Kohli, has decided to take an indefinite break from the shorter format of the game. He has informed the Indian team management that he is taking a break from T20Is.

However, he hasn't informed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) that he wants to comeback in the 20-over format. But he will not feature in T20Is before the IPL 2023. The 35-year-old took this decision after the Bangladesh tour.

Apart from him, some media reports have confirmed that skipper Rohit Sharma and vice-captain KL Rahul will not play in the upcoming three-match T20I home series against Sri Lanka, and that the Indian team will be led by star all-rounder Hardik Pandya.

A senior BCCI official informed the BCCI that Virat has informed the board that he is unavailable for the shorter format but will play in the ODI series. He also stated that it is not clear when he will make his comeback, but he will be on India's radar.

The BCCI source said, "Yes, Virat has informed he is unavailable for the T20s. He will return for the ODI series. It’s unclear at the moment whether he is taking a sabbatical from T20Is. But of course, he will be in plans for important series"

The report further suggests that Rohit is still recovering from his thumb injury and that it will take a bit of time. India doesn't want to rush his return to the team. However, Kohli's absence will give the chance to the Indian management to create a team for the 2024 T20 World Cup.

The management is looking to work with youngsters for the shorter format. Meanwhile, Virat, who was at his best in the T20 World Cup, took this decision in order to maintain his workload and prepare himself for the ODIs. India will play six T20Is before the IPL starts.