Virat Kohli to Retire from Test Cricket? BCCI Makes Last-Minute Appeal
New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): After retiring from T20 international cricket, Rohit Sharma has now announced his retirement from Test cricket. According to reports, experienced star batsman Virat Kohli is also considering retiring from the longest format of the game.
According to sources close to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the 36-year-old veteran has recently expressed his intention to step away from the longest format of the sport.
Kohli, who made his Test debut in 2011, has been playing Test cricket for over a decade. His aggressive captaincy, brilliant batting, and passion for the game have helped transform India into a strong Test team both at home and abroad. With over 9,000 runs and 30 centuries in Tests, Kohli’s presence at the crease is nothing short of iconic.
However, the BCCI is not yet ready to let go of this seasoned batsman from Test cricket. Sources suggest that top officials have approached Kohli and urged him to reconsider his decision, especially in light of important upcoming tours. India has a lengthy tour of England ahead, and Team India will need Virat Kohli's presence.
A senior BCCI official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said, "Virat is still fit and hungry for runs. His presence in the dressing room energizes the entire team. We have requested him to take some time before making a final decision."
Although Kohli has not made any public statement on the matter, fans and former cricketers have flooded social media with messages of support. It is hoped that this modern-day legend will once again play in the format. For now, Indian cricket is eagerly waiting.
Earlier, Indian captain Rohit Sharma had announced his retirement from Test cricket on Wednesday. Meanwhile, the five-match Test series against England is set to begin on June 20 in Leeds. If Kohli is absent in the new World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, the responsibility of winning the series will fall on the shoulders of the younger players.
