India suffered a heartbreaking 22-run defeat against England in the third Test at Lord’s, and former England captain Nasser Hussain didn’t hold back. As India faltered in a modest chase of 193, Hussain remarked:
“India need to find a new Virat Kohli. The old one has retired.”
His words echoed loud during the live commentary as the visitors collapsed despite Ravindra Jadeja’s valiant 61 not out, reigniting the debate around India’s post-Kohli era in red-ball cricket.
Why Kohli’s Absence Was Felt
This was India’s first Test tour of England since 2011 without Virat Kohli, who retired from Test cricket on May 12, shortly after Rohit Sharma. Though the younger core led by Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, and KL Rahul showed immense promise throughout the series, the Lord’s Test exposed the void left by Kohli — especially during tense run-chases.
Kohli, known as a run-chase master, often turned such tight games into his personal stage. Hussain’s comment wasn’t just a dig—it was a reality check.
India’s Collapse on Day 5: Key Moments
India began Day 5 at 58/4, needing 135 more. But England’s fiery attack, led by Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer, turned the tide quickly.
| Session | Wicket Tally | Key Events |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | 4 wickets | Pant bowled, Rahul LBW, Sundar caught & bowled |
| Lunch | India 112/8 | England in full control |
| Post-Lunch | Final 2 wickets | Jadeja’s resistance ends at 170 |
Top Dismissals:
- Rishabh Pant (22) – Bowled by Archer after a one-handed four.
- KL Rahul (39) – Trapped LBW by Stokes after umpire’s call overturned.
- Washington Sundar (0) – Staggering return catch by Archer.
- Nitish Reddy (17) – Feather edge to Woakes just before lunch.
Jadeja’s Lone Fight: A Glimmer of Hope
Ravindra Jadeja was India’s last hope and nearly turned the match. He stitched a 30-run stand with Nitish Reddy, and another defiant spell with the tail, pushing India close. But with no senior batter to support, even Jadeja’s brilliance wasn’t enough to take India over the line.
Nasser Hussain on Kohli’s Legacy
Nasser’s sharp comment wasn’t just aimed at India’s failure. It underlined Kohli’s aura in clutch moments, particularly in red-ball cricket.
“The old one has retired. He was the king of the run chase.”
– Nasser Hussain, Lord’s commentary box
Though Gill has over 600 runs in the series, his six-run knock in the second innings reignited the conversation around leadership under pressure.
India’s Run-Chase Woes Since Kohli’s Exit
| Series | Target | Outcome | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 England | 193 | All Out 170 | Lost by 22 runs |
| 2023 WI Series | 215 | Won with 5 wkts | Easy finish (Gill 98*) |
| 2023 Aus (WTC) | 280+ | Collapse | Lost Final |
Final Thoughts: Who Will Be the Next Kohli?
The Indian Test team under Gill-Pant leadership has shown plenty of spark. But as Hussain suggested, they must now find a new finisher, someone who owns chases like Kohli once did.
India trails 1-2 in the series with two more Tests to go. Will Gill, Pant, or even Jadeja step up to be that ‘new Virat Kohli’?
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