IND vs SA: Virat Kohli says he never said no.

IND vs SA 2021: India’s tour of South Africa was already in question with a rise in COVID-19 cases. However, BCCI after analyzing are ready to take a tour.

Along with the tour, Rohit Sharma was handed the ODI captaincy and Virat Kohli was sacked from the position. The rumors claimed that Kohli will be taking a break after the Test and will not be available for the ODI’s.

However, Virat Kohli, himself had made it clear about this situation. “I was and am available for selection (for the ODIs),” he said. “I was contacted by selectors 1.5 hours before the meeting, we discussed the Test selection, then chief selectors told me I won’t be the ODI captain and I was fine with it. There was no prior communication.” 

This was said in Mumbai ahead of Team India’s departure for South Africa for the Test Series to be played on December 26 till January 15.

Virat Kohli: I am tired of answering this question.

Virat Kohli has also made it clear on the rumor of his banter with Rohit Sharma.

“Rohit is a very able captain and we have seen it in the IPL as well as for India. [Rahul] Dravid is also very valuable. Both of them will have my absolute support. There is no problem between me and Rohit. I have been clarifying for the last two and a half years or so. I’m really tired.”

“I am mentally prepared and excited to do well in IND vs SA series.”

The Test skipper also added that he will strive to perform at his best in ODIs, despite not having the responsibility of leading the side. “I have done the best I could. My motivation level to perform for the team will never dip. As captain, I have been honest to my responsibilities and have been absolutely honest to the job. 

“Batting, of course, when you have done this for a long time at the international level, you know how to perform. Nothing can derail me from playing for India. Nothing can derail me from being motivated to play for India.” 

Kohli though admitted that all the chatter outside wasn’t ‘ideal’. “Lot of things that happen outside are not ideal but you have to do things in your control. I am mentally prepared and excited to do well in South Africa.”