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Virat Kohli Signals Intent to Retire from Test Cricket
In a major development for Indian cricket, star batter Virat Kohli has informed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) of his intention to retire from Test cricket. This revelation comes ahead of India’s five-match Test series against England scheduled to begin on June 20, and could mark the end of an era for India’s red-ball cricket journey.
At 36, Kohli has been one of the most prolific and influential figures in modern Test cricket. Over the course of 123 Tests, he has scored 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85. As captain, he led India in 68 Tests and secured 40 wins, including landmark overseas victories that transformed India’s reputation in the longest format.
BCCI Requests Kohli to Reconsider Decision
The BCCI has reportedly requested Kohli to reconsider his decision, particularly in light of the recent retirement of Rohit Sharma. The simultaneous exit of two of India’s most experienced cricketers would leave a significant leadership and performance gap in the Test setup. The Board is expected to engage in further dialogue with Kohli before any final announcement is made.
Team officials and selectors are said to be evaluating the long-term impact of Kohli’s potential retirement on the squad, especially as it gears up for major international assignments.
Form Slump and Future Focus on Shorter Formats
Kohli’s form in Test cricket has shown a downward trend over the last few years. Since 2020, his average in the format has fallen to 30.72, in contrast to the stellar 54.97 he maintained earlier in his career. However, he continues to shine in limited-overs formats and currently stands among the top run-scorers in the ongoing IPL season, having already amassed over 500 runs.
Having stepped away from T20 Internationals following India’s World Cup victory in 2024, Kohli appears to be recalibrating his focus toward the ODI format, possibly with the 2027 World Cup in mind.
Transition Phase for Indian Test Cricket
Should Kohli follow through with his retirement plans, it would signal the end of one of the most significant chapters in Indian Test history. His intensity, work ethic, and leadership have redefined how India approached the red-ball game. As the team transitions, rising stars such as Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant are expected to play pivotal roles in carrying forward the Test legacy.
The BCCI is expected to make a formal statement soon as discussions with Kohli continue. For now, Indian cricket braces for a potentially historic farewell.
