Ravi Shastri Reveals Insights on Virat Kohli's Sudden Test Retirement

Virat Kohli's recent retirement from Test cricket has left the cricketing community in shock. Former coach Ravi Shastri has opened up about a private conversation he had with Kohli just before the announcement, revealing that Kohli felt he had given everything to the game and had no regrets about his decision. Shastri also discussed the intense mental and emotional toll of Kohli's playing style, suggesting that such dedication may have contributed to his decision to retire. This article delves into Shastri's reflections on Kohli's career and the implications of his retirement.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 16, 2025, 10:43 IST

Virat Kohli's Retirement Shocks Cricket Community

The cricketing world is still reeling from Virat Kohli's unexpected retirement from Test cricket. Former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri has shared insights from a private conversation he had with Kohli just prior to the announcement.

In an interview with a sports review platform, Shastri disclosed that Kohli contacted him about a week before making his decision public.

“I spoke to him about it a week before his announcement, and he was very clear that he had given everything he could,” Shastri stated.

Shastri emphasized that Kohli expressed no regrets regarding his retirement.

“There were no regrets. I asked him a couple of questions, which were personal, but he made it clear that he had no doubts, leading me to believe that it was indeed the right time for him to step away. His mind had informed his body that it was time to go,” he added.

Shastri and Kohli were integral to one of India's most successful Test partnerships, which transformed the team's approach to overseas matches. However, even Shastri admitted that he was taken aback by Kohli's decision.

“Virat surprised me because I thought he had at least two or three more years of Test cricket left. But when you're mentally exhausted, that’s what your body tells you,” he remarked.

Shastri Discusses Kohli's Intensity and Its Consequences

Shastri also reflected on the emotional and mental strain associated with Kohli's intense playing style, noting that his all-or-nothing approach was not sustainable in the long run.

“When he committed to something, he gave it his all, which is hard to replicate. It felt like he had to take every wicket, catch, and make all the decisions when the team was on the field,” he explained.

Shastri pointed out that such deep involvement came at a significant cost, especially for someone as prominent as Kohli.

“He has received accolades worldwide... Whether in Australia or South Africa, he drew people to the game. There was a love-hate dynamic; fans would get frustrated because he had a knack for getting under their skin. His intensity was contagious, spreading quickly not just in the dressing room but also in households,” he concluded.