India’s Kohli Expected to Retire from Test Cricket Before England Tour

Virat Kohli, one of India's most prolific Test cricketers, has informed the BCCI of his intention to retire from Test cricket ahead of the five-match series against England starting June 20. His potential exit, following Rohit Sharma's recent retirement, signals a significant transition for India's Test team just as the 2025 to 2027 World Test Championship cycle begins, leaving the middle order with less experienced players like Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Rishabh Pant to fill the void. Kohli's Test career includes 9,230 runs in 123 matches with an average of 46.85, and he remains India's most successful Test captain. Despite recent dips in form, the BCCI has urged him to reconsider given his experience and fitness, especially with challenging tours ahead in England and Australia. Indian selectors are already evaluating replacements for Kohli at the crucial No. 4 batting position, with promising talents such as Dhruv Jurel, Sarfaraz Khan, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Devdutt Padikkal, and Shreyas Iyer in contention. The potential departure of both Kohli and Sharma leaves India’s Test batting line-up facing a demanding period of rebuilding under new leadership.