Virat Kohli Considering Test Retirement Before England Tour? BCCI Urges Reconsideration Amid Leadership Shift

In a potential turning point for Indian cricket, senior batter Virat Kohli has reportedly informed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) about his desire to retire from Test cricket ahead of India’s upcoming tour of England. According to Indian Express sources, the 36-year-old cricket icon communicated his decision privately, sparking immediate concerns within the board, which has since requested him to reconsider—at least until the England Test series concludes.

Virat Kohli Retirement News Sends Shockwaves Through Indian Cricket

Kohli’s retirement consideration follows hot on the heels of Rohit Sharma’s Test retirement, signalling the possible end of an era in Indian red-ball cricket. With both veterans stepping aside, India’s Test setup faces a major leadership vacuum, especially with a challenging five-match away series in England just weeks away. The series also marks the beginning of a new World Test Championship (WTC) cycle.

The timing of Kohli’s potential exit could not be more critical. A poor run with the bat during the recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy—where he scored just 186 runs across five Tests—has reportedly contributed to his decision. Despite starting the series with a century at Perth, his form dipped sharply in the following matches.

BCCI Responds: ‘Give It One Last Go’

Understanding the seismic impact Kohli’s absence would have on an already rebuilding Test side, senior BCCI officials have urged him to delay retirement until after the England tour.

“He’s mentally checked out. But we’ve asked him to give it one more go,” a top board official was quoted as saying under anonymity.

Shubman Gill Tipped as Future Captain

If Kohli exits, young opener Shubman Gill is reportedly being considered as the next red-ball captain. While the team boasts fresh talent like Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, and a recovering Rishabh Pant, the lack of Kohli’s experience, leadership, and clutch performances could expose India’s middle order—especially in seaming English conditions.

Kohli Reflects on Mental Burnout, Future Goals

Kohli has openly discussed the psychological toll of international cricket in recent months. At an RCB IPL event earlier this year, he spoke about mental fatigue post the Australian Test series.

“There’s a point where you ask yourself—what’s left in the tank? The motivation, the love for the format, and the energy to keep doing it at the highest level… that’s what I’ve been evaluating,” Kohli had said.

He also referred to a candid conversation with head coach Rahul Dravid, saying, “He [Dravid] said my competitive streak might not allow me to walk away easily. But if I’m being honest with myself, I’ll know when it’s time.”

Kohli’s Legacy in Red-Ball Cricket

If Kohli indeed retires, he will leave behind an exceptional legacy in Test cricket:

• 123 Tests
• 9,230 runs
• 30 centuries
• Instrumental in India’s overseas dominance in SENA countries (South Africa, England, New Zealand, Australia)

As captain, he built one of India’s most aggressive and fast-bowling-dominant Test sides in modern history, achieving landmark victories in England and Australia and raising the bar for fitness and professionalism in the longer format.

India’s Test Team at a Crossroads

With Rohit already out and Kohli potentially following, India’s red-ball squad is staring at a massive generational shift. The England tour, known for its tough playing conditions and historic rivalries, will be a true test of the new-look side’s resilience and readiness.