Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli has finally addressed the ongoing speculation about a potential return to Test cricket after his retirement from the longest format. Both Kohli and Rohit Sharma, two of India’s most experienced batsmen, have often been under scrutiny, with critics questioning their consistency and commitment. However, their recent performances have silenced many doubters. In yesterday’s first ODI against South Africa, Kohli scored a brilliant century, while Rohit contributed a valuable fifty.
In the thrilling match in Ranchi, where India defeated the Proteas by 17 runs, Kohli played a commanding innings of 135 runs and was named the player of the match. During the award presentation, he addressed the lingering questions surrounding his future in Test cricket. At 37, Kohli’s return to the red-ball format had been a topic of discussion, especially given India’s struggles in Tests.
However, Kohli disappointed fans hoping for a Test comeback. Calm, firm, and unequivocal, he stated that he would now focus exclusively on one format for the Indian team. When host Harsha Bhogle asked if he would now play only a single format, Kohli responded, “Yes, from now on, I will play only one format.”
Earlier, Indian media speculated that the BCCI might reconsider Kohli’s retirement after the team’s poor performances. However, BCCI secretary Debasish Saikia confirmed that the board had made no attempt to contact Kohli regarding a Test comeback.
Following his superb century in the first ODI, former England star Kevin Pietersen also weighed in on social media. He remarked, “If it’s even half true that Virat and Rohit are considering returning to Test cricket, it should be taken seriously. If the greatest stars of this game want to play again, they should be allowed to do so.”
Kohli retired from Test cricket in May of this year. In 123 Test matches, he amassed 9,239 runs at an average of 46.85, including 30 centuries. Having also stepped away from T20 internationals, fans now eagerly follow his batting exploits in India’s ODI fixtures.