Virat Kohli Tells BCCI He Wants to Retire from Test Cricket; County Cricket takes a dig

In a surprising development, Indian cricket star Virat Kohli has informed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) about his intention to retire from Test cricket. This news comes just weeks before India’s high-profile tour of England, which is scheduled to begin on June 20. Although Kohli has not made an official public announcement, sources say he communicated his decision to the BCCI privately.

The board has reportedly asked him to reconsider, given his experience and the importance of the upcoming series. Kohli’s possible retirement has sparked widespread discussion among fans, experts, and former cricketers. Many believe the timing could hurt India’s chances in English conditions, where Kohli has played several key innings in the past.

County Cricket Takes a Dig at Kohli

After the news surfaced, England’s County Cricket Championship reacted on social media. They shared a video showing English fast bowlers flattening stumps. The caption read, “We don’t blame you Virat,” which was seen as a cheeky jab at the 36-year-old.

The video was a response to an old Kohli interview aired on Sky Sports. The timing of the post suggested that County Cricket was poking fun at Kohli’s possible reluctance to face England’s seamers again.

BCCI and Cricket Legends Respond

The BCCI is yet to make a final decision. Officials have urged Kohli to stay on, highlighting how his presence adds value both on and off the field. They believe his leadership and experience will help guide a younger team during the England series.

Several cricket legends have also joined the conversation. Former India batters Ambati Rayudu and Navjot Singh Sidhu, along with West Indies great Brian Lara, have all asked Kohli to rethink his decision. They feel India still needs his class and maturity in the red-ball format.

Kohli’s Record in England

Kohli has a good Test record in England. He has scored 1,096 runs there, including two centuries and five half-centuries. On his last tour of England in 2022, he managed 218 runs in seven innings at an average of 31.14. Though not his best, it was an improvement from the 2014 tour, where he struggled badly.

Since that 2014 setback, Kohli has worked hard to improve his game in English conditions. Many hoped he would lead the side on one final tour before calling time on his Test career.

New India Test Captain Yet to Be Named

With Rohit Sharma retiring from Tests, India now needs a new captain. Jasprit Bumrah is considered a strong option, but concerns about his fitness remain. As a result, young top-order batter Shubman Gill is the frontrunner to take charge.

On the other hand, the England Cricket Board (ECB) has named a 13-man squad for a one-off Test against Zimbabwe. That match will serve as a warm-up before the big series against India. Ben Stokes returns as captain, and James Rew has been added to the squad after Jordan Cox was ruled out due to injury.

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