Virat Kohli Considers Retirement from Test Cricket, BCCI Urges Him to Reconsider

Kohli's Retirement Plans

Virat Kohli has reportedly informed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) of his desire to retire from Test cricket.

As per a report from a leading news outlet, the 36-year-old cricketer has shared his intentions privately with the board.

Despite this, the BCCI is not ready to part ways with their star player and has encouraged Kohli to rethink his decision.

This news comes shortly after Rohit Sharma announced his own retirement from Test matches.

Kohli's potential departure could create a significant gap in leadership and experience within the Indian Test squad, especially with a five-match series against England approaching.

BCCI's Response to Kohli's Decision

Although Kohli has not publicly addressed his retirement plans, an official source has indicated that the BCCI has asked him to postpone his decision until after the England series. There has been no sign from Kohli suggesting he might reconsider.

Kohli boasts an impressive Test record, having scored 9,230 runs in 123 matches at an average of 46.85, making him one of India's top players in this format.

However, his recent performances, particularly during the Australian tour, have been disappointing, where he accumulated only 95 runs across four innings, averaging 23.75. Following the series, he expressed frustration over his repeated dismissals outside the off-stump.

He has also mentioned that the long periods away from his family during overseas tours have taken a mental toll on him.

Should Kohli proceed with his retirement, India may need to rely on younger talents like Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, and Rishabh Pant to take the lead in Test cricket.

Gill is being considered as a future Test captain, but the team will undoubtedly miss the experience and competitive spirit that Kohli contributes.