Virat Kohli Decides to Move On from Test Cricket, BCCI Requests a Rethink

​Virat Kohli has reportedly informed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) of his intention to retire from Test cricket ahead of India's upcoming five-match series against England, starting June 20, 2025 . This decision comes shortly after Rohit Sharma's retirement from Test cricket, potentially leaving a significant leadership and experience gap in the Indian Test squad .​ Kohli, 36, has been a central figure in India's Test resurgence over the past decade, amassing over 9,000 runs and 30 centuries in the format . His aggressive leadership and relentless drive transformed India into a world-beating Test side, with landmark victories in Australia and sustained dominance at home.​ The BCCI has reportedly urged Kohli to reconsider his decision, emphasizing his fitness, hunger, and the positive impact of his presence in the dressing room . As of now, Kohli has not made a public statement regarding his retirement, and the BCCI is expected to announce the squad for the England series soon.​ Kohli's potential retirement marks the end of an era for Indian Test cricket, and his absence would pose a strategic challenge as the team transitions amid internal discord and the loss of two senior leaders.​ ​Virat Kohli has informed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) of his intention to retire from Test cricket ahead of the upcoming five-match series against England, set to commence on June 20, 2025. While the BCCI has requested him to reconsider, Kohli has not yet responded to their appeal. ​ Kohli's potential retirement comes at a time when the Indian Test team is undergoing significant transitions. With Rohit Sharma announcing his retirement from Test cricket, and R Ashwin having retired during the 2024-25 series in Australia, the team is poised for a leadership change. Shubman Gill has emerged as the frontrunner to take over the Test captaincy, with Jasprit Bumrah also being considered. ​ Kohli's departure would mark the end of an illustrious Test career spanning 14 years, during which he played 123 Tests, scored 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85, and captained India in 68 matches, leading them to 40 victories. ​ The Indian team management and selectors recognize Kohli's experience as crucial for the challenging England tour, especially with a relatively inexperienced squad. His presence is seen as vital in providing stability and guidance during this transitional phase. ​ As of now, Kohli has not made a public statement regarding his retirement, and the BCCI is expected to announce the squad for the England series soon. The cricketing fraternity awaits his final decision with anticipation.​