Navjot Singh Sidhu Questions Virat Kohli’s Retirement Speculations, Urges Reconsideration Ahead of England Tour

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu) : Former Indian batsman Navjot Singh Sidhu questioned Virat Kohli's intention to retire from Test cricket before the five-match Test series against England starting from June 20.

According to sources close to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the 36-year-old veteran had recently expressed his intention to quit the longest format of the game. Board sources say that Kohli has been urged to reconsider his decision. The new circle of the World Test Championship (WTC) is starting with the England tour. Sidhu posted on the social media platform 'X'. In a video, he said, "Virat Kohli's decision to retire has created a stir in the entire cricket world. His intention is right, his purpose is noble. But the time and occasion are not appropriate, because India's pride and prestige are at stake. We are going on a tour which is the toughest test even for other Test playing countries.

Sidhu has described Kohli as India's "shining warrior in England". Said, in Kohli's absence, the Indian team will not have much experience, as Rohit Sharma has already retired from Test cricket. Sidhu said, "Why do I say that Kohli can be the most powerful player for us in England? Because he has experience, especially after Rohit Sharma's departure. You cannot send an inexperienced team to England." Kohli, who made his Test debut in 2011, has represented India in 123 Test matches, scoring 9230 runs at an average of 46.85. He also led India in 68 Test matches, making him the country's most successful captain in this format. His intensity, fitness and leadership have transformed India into a dominant Test team both at home and abroad.