Virat Kohli Contemplates Test Retirement Amid Rohit Sharma's Exit
Kohli's Potential Departure from Test Cricket
Following Rohit Sharma's announcement to retire from Test cricket, there are indications that Virat Kohli is also considering stepping away from the format. Reports indicate that he has communicated to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) his intention to retire from Test matches ahead of India's crucial tour of England.
With this significant tour approaching, the BCCI has urged Kohli to rethink his decision. However, it remains unclear whether Kohli has responded to this request, leading sources to suggest that he is resolute in his choice, as reported by a source in a leading news outlet.
Kohli's recent performance in Test cricket has not been up to par, averaging just over 23 in his last ten matches. His struggles with deliveries outside the off-stump have raised concerns, particularly during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series in Australia. Should Kohli choose to retire before the England series, India will need to identify a new No. 4 batsman. Here are some potential candidates for that position.
Karun Nair: A Strong Contender
Karun Nair has been performing exceptionally well across all formats in domestic cricket. He was acquired by Delhi Capitals during the IPL auction and, after a slow start to the season, made a significant impact by scoring 89 runs off just 40 balls, nearly leading Delhi to victory against the Mumbai Indians.
Despite a dip in form in subsequent IPL matches, his outstanding performance in the Ranji Trophy keeps him in contention for the England tour. Nair has also played county cricket, which has given him valuable experience in English conditions.
In the 2024-25 Ranji season, he ranked fourth among run-scorers with 863 runs at an impressive average of 53.93, including four centuries and two fifties. His crucial scores of 86 and 135 in the finals against Kerala were pivotal for Vidarbha in securing their third title.
Sai Sudharsan: A Rising Star
Sai Sudharsan is another technically sound top-order batsman who has consistently performed well in both IPL and domestic cricket. His calm demeanor and clear approach to batting set him apart from his peers.
Before the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, he scored a century for India A in an unofficial Test match and later joined Surrey in the County Championship, gaining valuable experience in English conditions. His current form makes him a strong candidate for the No. 4 batting position.
Shubman Gill: Future Captain Material
Shubman Gill could also be a viable option lower down the batting order. He is widely regarded as a future Test captain for India, having started his career as an opener before transitioning to the No. 3 position. While he has shown promise at No. 3, consistency has been an issue.
Gill has faced challenges against the new ball in overseas matches and has occasionally lost his wicket under pressure. Batting at No. 4 might suit him better, allowing him to play more freely after the ball has softened. If Kohli does retire, this shift could benefit both Gill and the team.