INDIA are scheduled to play three Test matches and as many ODIs against South Africa starting December 26.

Ahead of the start of the series, there have been certain talks that Virat Kohli is likely to miss the ODI series against the Proteas. However, a BCCI official has now come forward to open up about the same.

Kohli will captain the side for the three-Test matches against South Africa with the final Test ending on January 15 in Cape Town.

But regarding the ODI series, it is being speculated that the batter might skip it to spend time with his family. The official of the board asserted that Kohli hasn’t sent any formal request for the same.

“As of now, Kohli hasn’t sent any formal request to skip the ODIs, to either BCCI president Sourav Ganguly or secretary Jay Shah. If something is decided at a later date or God forbid, he sustains an injury, then it’s a different matter,” a senior BCCI official said as quoted by HT.

The BCCI official also said that as of now, Kohli is playing the three-match ODI series. He also added that if in case he decides to take a break owing to bubble fatigue he will inform the concerned authorities.

“As things stand today, he is playing the three ODIs on January 19, 21, 23. The skipper is travelling with his family. But yes, if he feels bubble fatigue after the Test series and wants to take a break, he would definitely inform the chairman of selectors and secretary (Shah), who is the convenor of the selection committee,” the source added.

After the South Africa tour, the Indian team will be inside an extended bubble for three weeks as they will host Sri Lanka for Tests and T20 Internationals. Talking about Kohli, he has been quite vocal about bubble fatigue and the impact it has on one’s mental health. Last year, he was on paternity break during the 2020-21 Australia series and was also rested for the home T20I series against New Zealand.

About the India-South Africa series, the former hasn’t won a Test series in South Africa yet. However, considering team India’s recent overseas performances they will have their spirits high to turn the tables this time around. (CricTracker)