India's Virat Kohli has stepped down as the captain of his Test team after a 2-1 series loss to South Africa.
"I have acted with utmost sincerity and left nothing there. Everything has to stop at some stage and it is now for me as India's Test captain," Kohli announced on Twitter on Saturday.
“It has been seven years of hard work, hard work and relentless perseverance every day to lead the team in the right direction.
“The journey has had many ups and downs, but there has never been a lack of effort or lack of faith.
"I've always believed in giving my 120 percent to everything I do, and if I can't do it, I know it's not the right thing to do. I have absolutely clear heart and don't be dishonest to my team." Can. "
The 33-year-old Kohli, who has now relinquished the captaincy of all Indian teams, also stood down as Twenty20 captain in September and was replaced as the leader of the one-day team in December. Rohit Sharma has commanded in both the formats.
He added: "I want to thank the BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) for giving me the opportunity to lead my country for so long and more importantly, all the teammates who bought into this vision. Was for the team from day one and never gave up in any situation.
"You guys have made this trip so memorable and beautiful.
"To Ravi bhai (Shastri) and the support group who were the engines behind this vehicle that consistently propelled us upwards in Test cricket, you all have played a big part in bringing this vision to life.
"Finally, a big thank you to MS Dhoni, who believed in me as captain and found me to be an able person who can take Indian cricket forward."
Kohli, who took the reins in 2014, led India in 68 Tests, winning 40 matches and losing 17.
"BCCI congratulates Virat Kohli for his commendable leadership qualities that have taken the Test team to unprecedented heights," BCCI said in a statement on Twitter.
"He led India in 68 matches and has been the most successful captain ever."