Even after intense persuasion by the BCCI and legends like Brian Lara, Kohli is reportedly resolute about stepping away from Test cricket ahead of India’s crucial England tour.
May 11, 2025: In what could mark the end of an era in Indian cricket, Virat Kohli remains adamant about his retirement from Test cricket, despite efforts by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to get him to reconsider. The development comes just a day after the IPL 2025 was suspended due to rising military tensions with Pakistan, delivering a double blow to Indian cricket.
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Kohli, 36, reportedly communicated his decision to selectors two weeks ago, and while multiple board members and even global icons like Brian Lara attempted to change his mind, sources say the former India captain has remained firm.
“Kohli had informed the selectors two weeks ago about his desire to quit Tests. They were trying to persuade him to play in the Test series against England. However, he is still firm on his stance,” the Times of India quoted a source as saying.
A Void in England
With Rohit Sharma and Ravichandran Ashwin also having stepped away from the format, Kohli’s absence would leave India severely depleted for the five-match Test series in England, starting June 20 at Headingley. Despite reports that the BCCI may offer a last-minute request, it appears Kohli is set on walking away without a farewell match—much like Rahul Dravid, VVS Laxman, and Virender Sehwag before him.
Kohli’s Reasons: Timing and Form
Sources close to Kohli suggest he believes the time is right. His declining red-ball form, especially evident during India’s recent 1-3 loss in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, has weighed heavily. His vulnerability outside the off-stump has become more pronounced, and the once-famed bottom-hand dominance seems to have dulled.
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Despite playing in a Ranji Trophy match for Delhi earlier this year—a move that sparked hope—Kohli appears to have decided to step away with dignity rather than stretch his career into irrelevance.
BCCI Left with Tough Choices
Kohli’s retirement would force the BCCI’s hand in naming a new leader for India’s red-ball squad. With Rohit retired and Jasprit Bumrah’s fitness always under the scanner, Shubman Gill is currently the frontrunner for the role, with Rishabh Pant being considered for vice-captaincy.
A formal announcement from Kohli could arrive around the time of the squad selection for the England tour next week, sealing the exit of one of India’s most influential cricketers from the longest format.
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