Virat Kohli To Retire From Tests? 3 Players Whom India Can Recall As Replacement

Debashis Sarangi

Shreyas Iyer could be a replacement for Kohli in Tests [Source: @SaviourShrey96, @mufaddal_vohra/X]Shreyas Iyer could be a replacement for Kohli in Tests [Source: @SaviourShrey96, @mufaddal_vohra/X]

According to the latest reports, legendary Indian batter Virat Kohli has decided to hang up his boots from Test cricket. The veteran cricketer has apparently communicated with the BCCI, conveying his thoughts days before the England tour. 

Regarded as one of the finest players in the history of Indian cricket, Virat Kohli has played 123 Tests, scoring 9230 runs at a superb average of 46.85. He has been the backbone of India's batting unit, slamming 7564 runs, including 26 hundreds at number four. 

If the seasoned campaigner retires from Test cricket, it will create a massive void in the Indian batting unit. In such a scenario, here are three players whom India could rope in as Kohli's replacement for the upcoming England tour. 

1. Shreyas Iyer

Criterion
Data
Innings14
Runs811
Average36.86
50s/100s5/1

(Shreyas Iyer's Test stats)

  • Experienced Mumbai batter Shreyas Iyer has represented India in 14 Tests, amassing 811 runs at an average of 36.86. He has struck one hundred and five fifties, showcasing glimpses of his potential in red-ball cricket. 
  • Iyer was sidelined from Tests after a string of poor returns in the Test series against Australia, South Africa and England. However, the gritty batter recently regained his mojo, performing admirably in the domestic circuit. 
  • Iyer enjoyed stellar success in the Ranji Trophy, scoring 480 runs in seven innings at a magnificent average of 68.57. He also got back his central contract following an excellent Champions Trophy campaign. 
  • So, if Virat Kohli retires, it could give Shreyas Iyer to make his Test comeback and cement his place in the team. 

2. Karun Nair

  • In a bold move, India might also recall Karun Nair and reward him for his consistency in domestic cricket. The veteran batter played his last Test against Australia way back in 2017. 
  • Nair exhibited supreme form in the Ranji Trophy, playing a significant role for Vidarbha in the tournament. Interestingly, he batted at number four, amassing 863 runs at a superb average of 53.94. 
  • He was also impressive in the Vijay Hazare Trophy before playing a blinder against Mumbai Indians in the IPL. Although the DC batter failed to extend his dream run in the T20 tournament, the BCCI could give him an opportunity for his red-ball exploits. 

3. Rajat Patidar

  • Talented batter and RCB captain Rajat Patidar had a forgettable time with the bat in the England Tests. In three home Tests, the right-handed batter managed only 63 runs, averaging only 10.50. 
  • However, he turned things around in the Ranji Trophy, playing some excellent knocks for Madhya Pradesh. In eleven innings, Patidar struck 529 runs at a healthy average of 48.09. 
  • Considering he is technically solid and recently oozed his class with the bat, Patidar could receive a wildcard entry into Indian Test side if Kohli hangs up his boots from the format.