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"Selectors Thought Of Kohli For Captaincy" BCCI Reveals Amid Virat's Test Retirement Buzz

Sakshi Sharma

Virat Kohli likely to retire from Test Cricket (Source:@auqibhabib,x.com)Virat Kohli likely to retire from Test Cricket (Source:@auqibhabib,x.com)

In a significant shift, Rohit Sharma has announced his retirement from the longest format on May 7. His decision came just ahead of the selection for the upcoming five-match Test series against England, scheduled to begin on June 20. With Rohit's exit, the Indian team now prepares to usher in a new era of leadership.

According to multiple reports and sources, 25-year-old Shubman Gill is all but set to take over the captaincy for the high-stakes England series, with wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant expected to serve as his deputy. 

However, what many do not know is that the selection committee seriously considered former captain Virat Kohli as skipper for the England series. 

Kohli's Leadership Considered During Selection Talks

According to news agency PTI, quoting a source within the BCCI, selectors did consider the idea of asking Kohli to step back into the captaincy role. The motive was to give Shubman Gill more time to develop into a leadership position while ensuring continuity and experience in the interim.

“It is true that selectors did think about having Kohli as India skipper for the England series. This would have given Gill some time to grow into a leadership role, but at 25-and-a-half years of age, he is yet to hit his peak. Due to Bumrah’s fitness issues, Gill looks like the obvious choice for Ajit Agarkar’s committee," a BCCI source privy to the development said.

It is important to note that Virat Kohli has last captained India in January 2022 against South Africa. Under his leadership, India maintained an aggressive and high-tempo approach. 

Kohli has played 123 Tests and has made 9230 runs at an average of 46.85, with 30 centuries and 31 fifties to his name. He is India’s fourth-highest run-scorer in Test history, trailing only Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, and Sunil Gavaskar.

Why Virat Kohli Still Has More To Give?

While the temptation to exit on his own terms may appeal to Kohli, many believe now is not the time. His fitness levels remain extraordinary arguably better than most players. Whether it’s running between wickets or throwing himself around the field, his energy and commitment have shown no signs of waning.