Virender Sehwag backs Virat Kohli for captaincy role in all formats

Virat Kohli’s constant rise as the Test skipper has created a debate over MS Dhoni’s cricketing future. Well, it’s not hard to guess why. Ever since MS Dhoni gave up his Test leadership to the younger prospect Virat Kohli, talks about MS Dhoni and his future as the limited overs captain has gathered a lot of steam.

Dhoni hasn’t done anything wrong as far as performances are concerned but Kohli’s success as the Test skipper has made everyone think that it is perhaps the right time for Dhoni to hand over the rest of responsibility to Kohli. The debate is yet to reach a conclusion and would perhaps only meet a result when the Dhoni or the selectors take any decision.

However, Virender Sehwag seems to be convinced of the Kohli’s capabilities as a captain no matter what the format is. The 4th Test between India and England in Mumbai saw the hosts win the match by an innings and 36 runs to not only pocket the Anthony De Mello series 3-0 but also extend their unbeaten streak to five series in a row.

Kohli mesmerized the packed Wankhede Stadium with his flawless batting and secured his best ever 235-run knock in the traditional format of the game, earning plaudits for his mature captaincy and decision making throughout the game.

Be it his calm approach to handle Jimmy Anderson’s controversial comments about flaws in his technique or his leadership to get the best out of a young Indian squad, the 28-year-old has come out as one of the most sorted out brains Indian cricket has ever seen.

During the post-match show in Mumbai, Virender Sehwag went on to accept publicly that Virat Kohli is more than prepared to lead India – be it Tests, ODIs or T20Is – and selectors should hand over the captaincy responsibilities to the Delhi lad.

“Many questions have been raised on MS Dhoni’s abilities to carry on leading India in the shorter formats of the game, with some wanting the 34-year-old to continue till 2019 World Cup while others suggesting a step-down.”

“Since retiring from Test cricket, Dhoni’s measures to keep himself match-fit have also come under question but the BCCI selectors have refrained from taking any harsh steps thus far.”

“No doubting Mahi is one of the greatest captains the cricketing world has ever seen, but Virat’s consistent performance and hugely impressive leadership skills have started to make everyone wonder when the right time is to hand him over India’s bandwagon in all three formats.”