Virat Kohli Test retirement: In a major development in Indian cricket, former Indian captain Virat Kohli has informed the BCCI of his decision to retire from Test cricket. The 36-year-old batting great, who has been under pressure following a lean patch, has chosen to step away from the longest format just weeks ahead of India’s crucial 5-match Test series in England starting June 20.
According to sources cited by The Indian Express, the BCCI has urged Kohli to reconsider his decision, especially with the England tour around the corner. However, as of now, Kohli has not responded to the board’s request.
India’s Most Successful Test Captain Bids Farewell
Virat Kohli’s impact on Indian Test cricket is undeniable. Appointed captain in 2014, Kohli transformed India’s red-ball approach with aggression, fitness, and a pace-dominated attack. Under his leadership, India played 68 Tests, winning 40, losing 17, and drawing 11, giving him a win percentage of 58.82%, the highest for any Indian captain.
He led India to historic victories, including their first-ever Test series win in Australia, a drawn series in South Africa, and a 2-1 lead in England (which eventually ended 2-2 after the postponed Test in 2022). He played a key role in nurturing India’s fast-bowling unit featuring Bumrah, Shami, Ishant, Umesh, and Bhuvneshwar.
Recent Form and Virat Kohli’s Test Retirement Decision
Despite his decorated career, Kohli has struggled in recent years. In his last 5 Tests, he scored just 190 runs in 9 innings, managing only one century. His poor form in the recent Australia series, where he was dismissed similarly across innings, raised concerns about his place in the team.
His decision comes shortly after Rohit Sharma also retired from Tests, following reports that the BCCI was planning a transition in leadership ahead of the next WTC cycle. With both senior players stepping away, India’s red-ball team is on the verge of a generational shift.
Read also: Security Concerns Rise After IPL 2025 Bomb Threat at Chepauk Stadium
Will Kohli Rethink His Call?
The BCCI’s request for Kohli to reconsider may yet have an impact. Whether he returns for one final series or bids goodbye forever, his legacy as India’s greatest Test captain remains unmatched.
|
“Get all cricket updates on our Telegram & WhatsApp Community” |
