Virat Kohli Announces Retirement from Test Cricket, Shocking Fans Worldwide
Virat Kohli's Surprising Decision
Star Indian cricketer Virat Kohli has left both the Indian cricket community and fans globally in disbelief by declaring his retirement from Test cricket just before India's upcoming tour of England. He had previously informed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) about his intention to retire before making the announcement public on social media.
A Significant Transition in Indian Cricket
Kohli's retirement follows closely on the heels of Rohit Sharma's exit from red-ball cricket after being relieved of his captaincy. Both players have been pivotal to India's batting lineup for over a decade, guiding the team through a transformative era with their leadership and aggressive play. Following India's T20 World Cup victory last year, these batting legends have shifted their focus solely to One Day Internationals.
BCCI's Attempt to Change Kohli's Mind
After Kohli communicated his retirement decision to the BCCI selectors, the board reportedly urged him to reconsider, especially with the crucial Test series against England on the horizon. However, Kohli remained resolute, concluding his remarkable Test career after 14 years and 123 matches.
Consultation with Ravi Shastri
According to reports from Cricbuzz, Kohli consulted with former Indian all-rounder and head coach Ravi Shastri before finalizing his retirement. Shastri, who coached the team from 2017 to 2021, played a significant role in transforming the Indian Test team into a formidable force, achieving notable victories in Australia and a competitive presence in England.
Shastri's Tribute to Kohli
Ravi Shastri expressed his admiration for Kohli on social media, referring to him as a 'modern-day giant' and a 'fantastic ambassador' for Test cricket. He shared his disbelief at Kohli's retirement and thanked him for the unforgettable memories he created during his career.
Shastri's heartfelt message read: "Can’t believe you are done. You are a modern-day GIANT and were a fantastic ambassador for Test match cricket in every way you played and captained. Thank you for the lasting memories you’ve given to everyone, and to me in particular. It’s something I will cherish for life. Go well, champ."
Unmet Meeting with BCCI Officials
Prior to his retirement announcement, there was supposed to be a meeting between Kohli and BCCI officials, which did not occur due to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. The meeting was intended to include former BCCI secretary Jay Shah and current vice-president Rajeev Shukla, among others.
Reports suggest that Kohli had made his decision to retire long before the planned meeting, and it remains unclear whether he ever spoke with Shah.
Kohli's Impressive Test Career Stats
Kohli concludes his Test career as India's fourth-highest run-scorer, accumulating 9,230 runs, which includes 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries, at an average of 46.85 across 123 matches. He captained the Indian team from 2014 to 2022, leading them to 40 victories in 68 matches, making him the most successful Asian captain in Test history.