Virat Kohli’s unexpected retirement from Test cricket has left the cricket world stunned, but recent reports suggest the decision was long in the making. According to Cricbuzz, the former India captain wanted to lead the team again during the upcoming England Test series, but the BCCI had different plans.
Kohli Wanted to Lead India Again in Transition Phas
As per sources close to the matter, Kohli saw the beginning of the new World Test Championship cycle as a chance for resurgence — both for the team and himself. He reportedly expressed interest in returning as captain to guide India through this transitional phase.
However, the BCCI decided to hand over leadership to a younger player, signaling the start of a new era. Feeling sidelined and without the challenge he craved, Kohli decided to step away from the red-ball format entirely.
Dressing Room Environment Played a Role
Another factor behind Kohli’s retirement, as per the report, was the lack of freedom and trust in the current team setup. The report claims the current management didn’t offer him the kind of environment and positive vibes that existed under previous regimes — notably during Ravi Shastri’s tenure as head coach.
Kohli had endured a three-year slump in form, averaging just 32 with the bat. But sources suggest he was looking for motivation in the form of new responsibility — which never came.
Kohli Consulted Agarkar, Shastri, and Jay Shah Before Exit
Before making his decision public, Kohli reportedly spoke with several key figures:
- Ajit Agarkar (Chief Selector): Kohli had at least two conversations with him.
- Ravi Shastri: A close confidant and former head coach, with whom Kohli had a personal discussion.
- Jay Shah: Former BCCI Secretary, though it’s unclear how far their chat went.
- A scheduled meeting with Rajeev Shukla never happened due to ongoing India-Pakistan political tensions.
Reports indicate that none of these discussions swayed Kohli’s final decision. He had made up his mind once it became clear that the board was not considering him for a leadership role again.
With Rohit Sharma also retiring from Tests, the BCCI opted to begin the new cycle with a clean slate — and while the decision may be strategic, it officially closes the chapter on one of India’s most celebrated red-ball cricketers.
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