Indian cricket could be on the brink of a seismic shift. Just days after Rohit Sharma announced his sudden retirement from Test cricket, reports have emerged that Virat Kohli has informed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) of his intention to retire from the longest format of the game. The timing, just ahead of the high-profile five-match Test series against England, has sent shockwaves across the cricketing world and raised serious concerns about the future leadership and stability of the Indian Test team.
Kohli Drops the Bombshell
According to a detailed report by The Indian Express, Virat Kohli has told the BCCI that he is planning to retire from Test cricket. The decision, as per sources, is not impulsive. Kohli had reportedly been contemplating stepping away from red-ball cricket since the end of the 2024 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where his performance drew heavy criticism. He managed just 190 runs in nine innings, averaging a mere 23.75, and was repeatedly dismissed outside the off-stump—a glaring technical issue that resurfaced throughout the series.
“He has made up his mind and has informed the board that he is moving on from Test cricket. The BCCI has urged him to rethink as the crucial England tour is coming up. He is yet to revert on the request,” a source told The Indian Express.
Rohit’s Exit Adds Pressure
Kohli’s reported decision comes barely two days after Indian skipper Rohit Sharma declared his retirement from Test cricket with immediate effect. Rohit made the announcement via Instagram, posting a heartfelt message alongside a picture of his Test cap.
“Hello everyone, I would just like to share that I am retiring from Test cricket. It’s been an absolute honor to represent my country in whites. Thank you for all the love and support over the years,” he wrote.
The BCCI confirmed Rohit’s departure, thanking him for his service and announcing that he would continue to lead India in ODIs. “Thank you, Captain. End of an era in whites! ImRo45 bids adieu to Test cricket. He will continue to lead India in ODIs. We are proud of you, Hitman,” the board posted on X (formerly Twitter).
With Rohit out and Kohli potentially following suit, Indian selectors now face the uphill task of reshaping the Test team and identifying a new captain ahead of a crucial World Test Championship (WTC) cycle.
Captaincy Twist: Kohli Wanted the Reins Back
In a new twist to the saga, The Times of India has reported that Kohli had actually expressed interest in returning as the Test captain. However, his request was reportedly turned down by the BCCI. The board is believed to be keen on grooming a young leader for the new WTC cycle, with names like Shubman Gill being floated as potential candidates.
“A new WTC cycle is starting. Future and continuity have to be kept in mind as far as the team is concerned. Even coach Gautam Gambhir would want a set of players he is likely to work with for an extended period. There can’t be any stopgap solutions for such an important series,” a BCCI source told TOI.
This rejection may have contributed to Kohli’s decision to step away. According to sources, he even confided in his teammates during the Australia tour that he was considering retirement. Though the poor run of form certainly played a role, the denial of the captaincy request appears to have added emotional weight to his decision.
BCCI Still Hopeful
Despite the reports, the BCCI is not ready to give up on Kohli just yet. A senior board official, speaking to NDTV, said, “He’s still incredibly fit and hungry. His presence in the dressing room lifts the entire team. We’ve requested him to take some time before making a final call.”
Kohli, who made his Test debut in 2011, has played 123 matches and scored 9230 runs at an average of 46.85. He also holds the record for the most Test wins as an Indian captain. His exit, if confirmed, would not just be the loss of a great batsman but also a powerful leader whose presence often galvanized the team.
What’s Next?
The Indian Test team now stands at a crossroads. With two stalwarts—Rohit Sharma already gone and Virat Kohli likely on the way out—India is staring at a leadership vacuum and a transition period. The upcoming England series, beginning June 20, will be crucial not just for the WTC standings but also for the future identity of the Indian Test side.
Whether Kohli reconsiders or sticks to his decision remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: Indian cricket is witnessing the slow conclusion of a golden chapter, and the next few weeks could shape its legacy for years to come.
