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"Virat Chose The Right Moment": Former Batting Coach Backs Kohli's Test Retirement

Soumyajit Dutta

Sanjay Bangar and Virat Kohli [Source: @mufaddal_vohra/X]Sanjay Bangar and Virat Kohli [Source: @mufaddal_vohra/X]

Virat Kohli’s abrupt decision to retire from Test cricket has left the sporting world divided, with debates swirling around his timing and legacy. The 36-year-old’s 14-year career redefined Indian cricket, blending aggression, fitness, and a results-driven mindset that propelled the team to unprecedented heights. 

Former India coach Ravi Shastri, on his ICC podcast, pointedly described the batter as "mentally fried," shedding light on the invisible burdens of his relentless drive. Mirroring Shastri's words, Sanjay Bangar tried to decode Kohli's retirement

Bangar Supports Virat Kohli's Call on Test Retirement

Behind the statistics and trophies lies a narrative of mental exhaustion, hinted at by those closest to Kohli. Sanjay Bangar, ex-batting coach and Kohli’s confidant echoed the sentiment, revealing his unsuccessful attempts to persuade the star to reconsider.

"It was a sad day for me personally. He was a giant of his era. I tried to reason with him - there were still a few good years of Test cricket left in him. But he had made up his mind. He was convinced about the timing, and once he made that decision, there was no going back," Bangar said on JioHotstar, as quoted by TOI.

"We must respect that. In our country, letting go is not always appreciated, but Virat chose the right moment. He retired when people were still asking 'why now?' - and that's often the hallmark of a great sportsman," he added.

Kohli's Undying Legacy In Test Cricket

Kohli finishes as India’s fourth-highest Test run-scorer (9,230 runs at 46.85), with 30 centuries and 31 fifties. Beyond numbers, his legacy lies in transforming India into a gritty, world-class unit — a testament to his obsession with excellence and relentless pursuit of victory.

While Suresh Raina brought up the debate of awarding Kohli with Bharat Ratna, as captain, he forged a fearless unit capable of dominating both home and overseas conditions, leaving behind a blueprint for future generations.