‘There comes a stage when you can't handle pressure’ – Shahid Afridi on Virat Kohli’s resignation as Test captain

Virat Kohli stepping down as India’s Test captain was nothing short of a bombshell for the cricket world. A day after India’s 1-2 Test series defeat against South Africa, the 33-year-old took to social media platforms and informed about his major decision. Having led the side to 40 wins in 68 games, the right-handed batter finished as the country’s most successful Test skipper and fourth-most successful overall.

However, many believe that Kohli still could have continued at the position for few more years. However, former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi is not really of the same opinion. According to him, Kohli made the right decision as an individual is not able to cope up with much pressure after a certain stage.

I think Virat Kohli captained for enough time: Shahid Afridi

Afridi also that the right-handed batter led the team brilliantly during his seven-year stint as Test skipper. “It’s fine, in my opinion. Virat has played a lot of cricket and has led the team really well. I think this is the right decision,” the veteran all-rounder said during a discussion on Samaa TV.

“There comes a stage where you are unable to take too much pressure, and because of it, your own performances get affected. I think he has captained for enough time and at a high level. Now, as a batter, he needs to enjoy his cricket,” the 41-year-old added.

Meanwhile, it will be interesting to see who’ll succeed Kohli as India’s next Test captain. Veteran opener Rohit Sharma, the designated skipper in white-ball skipper, has been elevated as India’s full-time vice-captain. However, considering he’s 34 and prone to injuries, giving him the reins isn’t a straight forward choice.

KL Rahul, who led India in the Johannesburg Test, and Rishabh Pant are the other top contenders with the former seemingly being the front-runner to get the position. Meanwhile, Kohli will continue to offer his services as a player and it will be interesting to see whether the change will work for him or not.

Meanwhile, Team India, in their next assignment, will meet South Africa in a three-match ODI series, starting from January 19. Rahul will lead the Men in Blue and would like to make a significant mark.