Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, May 10: Indian cricket faces a seismic shift as Virat Kohli has reportedly informed the BCCI of his intent to retire from Test cricket, just days after Rohit Sharma officially announced his departure from the longest format. According to The Indian Express, Kohli has conveyed his decision to the board, though top officials have urged him to reconsider with a crucial five-match Test series against England on the horizon.
Sources cited in the report suggest that Kohli, 35, has been contemplating stepping away from red-ball cricket since the conclusion of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where his underwhelming performance drew widespread criticism. “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,” the report quoted insiders as saying.
The timing of Kohli’s potential exit compounds the challenges for Indian selectors, who are already preparing for life without Rohit Sharma in Tests. Rohit, 38, confirmed his retirement from Test cricket on Wednesday via Instagram, bringing clarity to months of speculation. His announcement came with a heartfelt message and a photo of his Test cap, marking the end of a remarkable chapter in Indian cricket.
“It’s been an absolute honour to represent my country in whites,” Rohit wrote. “Thank you for all the love and support over the years. I will continue to represent India in the ODI format.”
The BCCI acknowledged Rohit's contributions with a tribute on X (formerly Twitter), saying, “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.”
Rohit had previously stepped down from T20 Internationals after leading India to a memorable World Cup victory last year. With both him and potentially Kohli stepping aside from the Test format, the Indian Test team is poised for a major transition, and selectors face a daunting task as they prepare to name the squad for the England series in the coming days.