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"They Couldn't Drive The Format": Shardul Thakur On Kohli-Rohit's Test Departure

Soumyajit Dutta

Shardul Thakur, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli [Source: @ICC/X]Shardul Thakur, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli [Source: @ICC/X]

India all-rounder Shardul Thakur addressed the Test retirements of stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli on Monday, days before the squad’s departure for a five-match series against England starting June 20. 

Thakur, returning to the national setup for the first time since 2023, will feature in India A’s warm-up fixtures against England Lions before linking up with the senior squad. His remarks highlighted the void left by the veterans and the challenges of transitioning to a less-experienced unit.

Thakur On The Absence Of Ro-Ko

Shardul Thakur suggested that Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s retirements were likely driven by their self-assessment of diminishing impact in Tests. 

“They are the most senior figures in the game, but such decisions are personal. It comes when they feel they can’t contribute or drive the format as before,” Thakur said.

Thakur told RevSportz, emphasising the duo’s legacy. He acknowledged the security senior players provide, stating, “There is a great deal of protection when senior players are around, and having a good mix of senior and junior players in the team provides flourishing results.”

The two legends, who announced their exits from the format within days of each other earlier this month, leave behind a combined 190 Tests of experience, ushering in a new era for India’s red-ball side. 

Thakur On Jadeja's Role After Rohit-Kohli Void

With Ravindra Jadeja now the most capped player in the squad, the team will rely on a younger core under fresh leadership during the high-profile tour.

Thakur therefore, anticipates a reshaped dynamic. “Jaddu is now the most experienced. This tour will test everyone, with new responsibilities, including leadership roles,” he added, hinting at the shift in team hierarchy.

The 32-year-old, eyeing a comeback in the Test side, expressed optimism about India’s revamped lineup. 

“It’s a fresh challenge, but we have the talent. Young players must seize this opportunity to build their own legacy,” Shardul said.

Thakur said, underlining the squad’s readiness to adapt. His focus remains on contributing with both bat and ball, starting with the India A matches, as India gears up for their first Test series post the Kohli-Rohit era.