Virat Kohli surprised everyone by announcing his retirement from Test cricket on May 12. He was slated to play in India's five-match Test series against England starting on June 20. However, the 36-year-old Kohli decided it was the right time to part from the format he loves the most. Recently, Kohli faced challenges in his Test cricket performance, having scored only 440 runs in 11 tests since 2024, with an average of 23.16. During this period, he managed just one half-century and a century. Fans had hoped he would regain his form in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-2027 cycle.
Greg Chappell on Kohli's Mental State
Former India coach Greg Chappell believes Kohli's decision stems from a lack of mental clarity. Chappell stated that this legendary batsman had to acknowledge that his body and mind were no longer in sync. Chappell mentioned, the choice wasn't due to a drop in skill but came from realizing he couldn't gather the same mental sharpness that made him a brilliant batsman. He understood that at the highest level, if the mind isn't sharp and clear, the body will falter too.'
Greg Chappell remarked that when doubt creeps into the body, it affects decision-making, disrupts footwork, and diminishes the fluidity that makes a player world-class. Kohli's retirement reminds us that form is a direct intersection of technique and the mind.
Kohli, who had previously retired from T20 International cricket, will continue to play for India in ODI cricket. The Delhi batsman has a stellar Test cricket record, amassing 9230 runs in 123 Tests, with an average of 46.85, including 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries.
In his absence, India will explore options for the crucial number 4 spot in Test cricket, the longest format. Karun Nair, who recently scored a brilliant double century in a four-day match between India A and England Lions, could be a strong contender. Additionally, India's new Test captain, Shubman Gill, who has been batting at number 3, could also step into the number 4 position.
