In a major development that could shape the future of Indian cricket, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly working behind the scenes to persuade Virat Kohli to reconsider his decision to retire from Test cricket.
Kohli, who has been a pillar of India’s Test side for over a decade, has allegedly informed BCCI officials of his intention to step away from the longest format. This news comes on the heels of Rohit Sharma’s recent retirement from Test cricket, leaving a significant void in the team’s leadership and experience.
With a crucial five-match Test series against England set to begin on June 20, 2025, the timing of Kohli’s potential exit has added urgency to the situation. According to sources close to the matter, the BCCI is not ready to accept this decision just yet.
In fact, the board has reached out to a “highly influential figure” in Indian cricket — possibly a former player or national icon — to personally meet with Kohli before the final squad selection on May 23. The aim is to convince him to stay on, at least for the England series, and guide the team through what could be a critical transitional phase.
Read More: India vs Pakistan War: Escalating Tensions and Impact on Kashmir
At 36, Kohli has played 123 Test matches, scoring over 9,000 runs, and has led India to memorable victories, including a historic series win in Australia in 2018-19. While recent years have seen fluctuations in form, his presence in the dressing room and his ability to rally the team remain unmatched.
As one of the most recognizable faces in world cricket, Kohli’s retirement would mark the end of an era for Indian Test cricket. It would also be a significant blow to the format itself, which continues to rely on star power to retain global interest.
Whether Kohli will be swayed by the BCCI’s outreach remains to be seen. For now, fans and cricketing experts alike are hoping that one of India’s greatest Test players will reconsider and don the whites once again.