Moeen Ali On Rohit-Kohli's Absence (Source: @rushiii_12/x.com, @bbctms/x.com)
As the five-match Test series against England is on its way, Team India faced a massive blow even before stepping onto the field. With Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma hanging up their boots in the longest format, Team India has faced a setback.
As these two stars will not feature in the series, the English side has already found their momentum, which a former England player describes as a ‘huge boost’ for the hosts.
A Big Boost For England
As the WTC’s 2025-27 cycle is set to be inaugurated with the Test series between India and England, India has already been hit hard. As Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have announced their retirements from the longest format, the side received a big blow. As they look to bounce back in whites, the absence of the iconic duo is set to leave a significant void.
As Team India is set to appear in the battle in the next month with Rohit-Kohli’s absence, the hosts are looking at it as an advantage. Former England star Moeen Ali called their absence a big boost for England, especially praising Rohit’s standout performance during the last tour.
“Definitely, I think it's a massive boost for England. Two top players, who've been to England a few times on tour, so they have the experience. I remember Rohit playing really well the last time. The character they have, the leaders they are — both of them have captained India in Test cricket — so yeah, a massive loss for the team,” Ali said.
Moeen Ali Calls Kohli’s Retirement A Major Blow To Test Cricket
Even in the era of the thrilling T20 action, Virat Kohli’s brilliance, passion, and determination played a crucial role in engaging the fans with the Test format. As captain, he transformed India into the No. 1 Test side for an extended period. Kohli in whites was a pure emotion for the supporters. Moeen Ali, reflecting on Kohli’s retirement, called it a massive blow for Test cricket.
“It's a massive blow to Test cricket. Virat was the one pioneer, the one guy in Test cricket that always pushed the format. He's done so much for the game, especially in India. I think after Sachin, he was the guy everybody came to watch. He filled out stadiums,” he said.
After Rohit Sharma left the throne, the team management is looking for a new leader to take the reins in the longest format. Reports suggest Shubman Gill is leading the race, and the official announcement is expected on May 23. The next chapter in India's red-ball journey is about to begin.
 "Poulomi Chakraborty")
