4 reasons why resting Virat Kohli for Asia Cup is the right decision

As this long tour of England begins to enter its final phase, talk has started about India's next immediate assignment- the Asia Cup 2018 which will be played in the UAE from the 15th of September.

The selection panel announced a 16-member side for the event on Saturday and the biggest talking point to emerge out of it was the decision to give skipper Virat Kohli a break from and providing an opportunity to a few other players to have a taste of international cricket.

The decision has been welcomed by many in social media, with the general consensus being Kohli was a key player for the longer format of the game and he himself valued his performance greatly in red-ball cricket.

Here are four reasons why resting Kohli for the Asia Cup was the right call:

The skipper needs a break!

The most basic of all reasons. The ongoing tour of England began on the 27th of June and will stretch upto the 11th of September when the final Test match ends at The Oval.

Being the captain of the team in all three formats, Kohli has featured every single game and has been the backbone of the Indian batting line-up in each of the formats. With a full-fledged home series against the West Indies in October and an equally demanding tour to Australia coming up in November, the break from the Asia Cup would give Kohli some time away from the game to recharge his batteries and then get ready to face the challenges ahead of him, post the Asia Cup.

Important for Kohli to be ready for future tours

Kohli's form and fitness remains vital for India going forward

A continuation from the previous point. Post the Asia Cup, India will lock horns against the West Indies at home in a full-fledged series, involving two Tests, five ODIs and three T20Is.

Post that though is what will be of greater importance for the side as they get set for a long tour to Australia, starting in mid-November and move to New Zealand, return for the IPL before heading for the World Cup.

Because of the volume of cricket that is being by India around the world, it is imperative they provide Kohli with breaks if and when there is a possible window for it.

Another taste of captaincy for Rohit Sharma

Can Rohit once again impress as captain

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Rohit Sharma may have lost his place in the Test side, but in coloured clothing, he remains a very important member of this side. With Kohli been given a break, it provides Sharma with yet another opportunity to lead the side.

At the end of last year, he got the chance to lead again against Sri Lanka at home and team ended up winning. Maybe he could help India repeat the same at the Asia Cup, as well.

Gives an opportunity to other players in the squad

Can Rayudu grab the chance if promoted to Number 3?

With Kohli not in the squad, an opening arises in the Number 3 position for India to test out newer players. Ambati Rayudu has played at that position in the past and so can stake a claim to bat there once again. KL Rahul is another candidate to play there.

Hopefully, whoever gets the opportunity makes the most of it.