End of an Era: Virat Pads Down from Tests Before English Summer

In a big news development, Indian cricket legend Virat Kohli has penned a letter to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regarding his wish to retire from Test cricket before the upcoming series of five matches against England starting June 20, 2025. The 36-year-old, who has played his first Test in 2011 and earned over 9,200 runs with 30 tons, has been considering taking this step ever since the Border-Gavaskar Trophy tournament against Australia earlier this year. Despite a memorable century in Perth, Kohli’s overall Test form has declined in recent years.

 

Sources reveal Kohli communicated his plans to chief selector Ajit Agarkar in April, seeking to step away before the new World Test Championship cycle begins. The BCCI has urged him to reconsider, emphasizing his invaluable experience for the challenging England and Australia tours ahead. With Rohit Sharma recently retiring from Tests, Kohli’s exit would leave a significant leadership and experience gap in India’s middle order.

 

The cricketing fraternity awaits Kohli’s final decision as discussions continue behind the scenes.

 

Source: Sky Sports, Indian Express, Times of India