Mumbai: Virat Kohli has reportedly informed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) of his intention to step away from Test cricket, though the board has requested him to rethink the move, according to sources.
“Kohli has conveyed his decision to the board, saying he’s ready to move on from the longest format. The BCCI, however, has asked him to take some more time and reconsider, especially with the England Test series around the corner. He hasn’t responded yet,” a source familiar with the development told an English news daily.
This potential decision follows closely on the heels of Rohit Sharma’s announcement to retire from Test cricket. With the selection committee expected to meet soon to finalize the squad for the upcoming five-match Test series in England, Kohli’s exit would be a significant shake-up.
Insiders reveal that Kohli had been mulling over his Test career for some time. His struggles during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, despite a promising century in the opening Test, may have influenced his thinking.
If Kohli sticks to his decision and with Rohit already out, the Indian Test side will face a notable leadership and experience gap. The top and middle order would likely be held together by the likes of KL Rahul, Shubman Gill, and Yashasvi Jaiswal, with Rishabh Pant expected to play a key role down the line.
