‘It's been a pleasure playing under you’ – Jasprit Bumrah posts a heartfelt note for Virat Kohli

On January 15, Virat Kohli shook the entire cricketing fraternity and fans as he announced his decision to step down as India’s Test captain. Kohli took to social media to make this announcement just a day after India lost the Test series against South Africa.

Several former and current cricketers congratulated the 33-year-old on his achievements while at the helm and hailed him as the best Test captain in Indian cricket history. Fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah also posted a touching tribute for his captain. He called Kohli a great leader and also mentioned that he enjoyed playing under him.

Bumrah made his limited-overs debut for India under MS Dhoni. But, his Test debut happened during the 2018 tour of South Africa under Kohli’s captaincy. Bumrah took 14 wickets in three matches at an average of 25.21 and was the second-highest wicket-taker for India behind Mohammed Shami’s tally of 15 wickets. Bumrah has so far picked 113 wickets in 27 Test matches at an average of 22.85.

“Integrity, insight and inclusivity. Your contribution to the team as captain is invaluable, you’ve been a great leader to this side. It’s been a pleasure playing under you,” Bumrah tweeted.

Everything has to come to a halt at some stage – Virat Kohli wrote on Twitter

Just like when he decided to step down as the T20I captain, Virat Kohli made the announcement regarding his decision in a similar manner. He was appointed the captain of the Test side back in 2015 when Dhoni decided to hang his boots. Under Kohli’s leadership, India jumped to the number one position in the Test rankings and won Test matches in overseas conditions. Kohli led India in 68 Tests, winning 40 Tests while losing 17.

In his Twitter post, Kohli thanked BCCI for giving him the responsibility of leading the side. He also mentioned former head coach Ravi Shastri’s name in his tweet and mentioned that he was the engine of the Test side that tasted victories in difficult conditions. He also thanked Dhoni for believing in him as the captain and supporting him on his journey.

The Indian team is scheduled to play a three-match ODI series against South Africa from January 19. KL Rahul will be leading the side in the absence of Rohit Sharma who has been ruled out due to an injury. Bumrah would be Rahul’s deputy for this series.