Thu May 15 01:59:30 UTC 2025: **Kohli’s Test Retirement: Was Captaincy Snub the Final Straw?**
**NEW DELHI:** Virat Kohli’s sudden retirement from Test cricket last month may have been influenced by more than meets the eye, according to recent reports. While the cricketing world mourned the loss of the veteran batsman, sources suggest Kohli was initially given a hint that he could be reinstated as Test captain during India’s tour of Australia in December-January, following a loss in Adelaide.
However, after India lost the series, the team management reportedly shifted its focus to grooming a younger captain, leading to a change in tone. Despite Kohli’s efforts, including playing a Ranji Trophy match, he was later informed that he would continue as a player only. This decision, according to the report, may have been a key factor in his decision to retire.
Former national selector Sarandeep Singh expressed surprise at Kohli’s announcement, stating he had received no indication of retirement plans. Singh revealed Kohli was preparing for the England Test series, including playing India ‘A’ matches and aiming for multiple centuries. The circumstances surrounding Kohli’s retirement raise questions about the internal dynamics within the Indian cricket team and the motivations behind the leadership transition.
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