Will Virat Kohli Make a Comeback to Test Cricket? Madan Lal Hopes for His Return
Madan Lal's Plea for Kohli's Return
New Delhi: Following India's disappointing defeat to England in the third Test at Lord's, former all-rounder and 1983 World Cup champion Madan Lal has expressed his desire for Virat Kohli to reconsider his retirement from Test cricket.
Kohli, celebrated as one of the game's modern legends, announced his retirement from the format in May, concluding a remarkable 14-year career where he amassed 9,230 runs in 123 matches, boasting an impressive average of 46.85, along with 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries.
He retired as the fourth-most successful Test captain in history, trailing behind Graeme Smith (53 wins), Ricky Ponting (48 wins), and Steve Waugh (41 wins).
"Virat Kohli’s dedication to Indian cricket is unparalleled. I hope he considers returning to Test cricket. There’s no shame in coming back. If not this series, perhaps he can rejoin in the next one," Madan Lal stated on CricketPredicta.
With 30 Test centuries, Kohli ranks as the fourth-most prolific Indian batsman, following Sachin Tendulkar (51), Rahul Dravid (36), and Sunil Gavaskar (34). He also holds the record for the most Test double hundreds by an Indian, with seven.
During the ongoing tour of England, India made a strong comeback in the second Test after losing the first match by five wickets at Leeds. The visitors showcased a solid bowling performance, dismissing England for just 271 runs on the final day, securing a memorable win with over a session to spare.
India's bowlers executed a disciplined effort in the second innings, bowling England out for 192 runs. Washington Sundar was particularly impressive, taking four key wickets to set a manageable target for India.
However, England's bowlers, spearheaded by Jofra Archer and Ben Stokes, caused a dramatic collapse during the final session of Day 4 and the opening session of Day 5, bowling India out for 170 while chasing a target of 193, despite a commendable effort from all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja.