Is Losing Someone Like Kohli a Major Setback for the Indian Test Team?

New Delhi, May 12 (NationPress) Former Indian wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik expressed that Virat Kohli's retirement from Test cricket represents a significant loss for the Indian Test team, as he has been a key figure in defining the essence and value of the longest format of the game.

On Monday, Kohli announced his exit from Test cricket, concluding a remarkable career in which he accumulated 9,230 runs across 123 matches with an impressive average of 46.85. He registered 30 centuries and 31 fifties, with his highest score being 254 not out. This announcement came shortly after Rohit Sharma revealed his own retirement from the longest format.

“This is monumental not just for Indian cricket but for Test cricket as a whole. Nowadays, it's evident that T20s dominate viewership. Virat Kohli has played a pivotal role in illustrating how Test cricket should be approached and appreciated,” Karthik stated.

“Losing a figure like him during a crucial phase in cricket is challenging, particularly as Test cricket faces its own set of dilemmas. Kohli has been one of the most critical influencers over the past decade, enhancing the enjoyment of Test cricket for fans.”

Karthik remarked, “From an Indian Test perspective, his absence will be profoundly felt. More significantly, his lack of presence in cricket is a substantial loss for the sport as a whole,” he conveyed to Sky Sports.

Kohli's tenure as India's most successful Test captain included 40 victories and just 17 losses in 68 matches before stepping down in 2022. When asked about Kohli's status among India's greatest Test players, Karthik affirmed, “Absolutely. He stands alongside legends like Gavaskar, Tendulkar, and Dravid.”

“Beyond his batting prowess, it was his captaincy that instilled fear in opponents. His intensity throughout five days of play is what truly set him apart,” he added.

Currently serving as the batting coach for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), the team Kohli represents in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, Karthik believes it will be a formidable challenge to fill Kohli's shoes as India prepares for a five-match series in England starting June 20.

“It's tough to pinpoint a potential successor because what Kohli has accomplished over the last fifteen years is extraordinary. With the shift towards T20 cricket, many are neglecting the significance of Test cricket,” he noted.

“Kohli's dedication to Test cricket was unparalleled. He believed it should be the most respected format, and the effort he invested led to remarkable results.”

Karthik further elaborated, “His journey was significant as he faced challenges in England before conquering them in his second attempt. Young players will experience similar hurdles, but their commitment to practice and improve their techniques will be crucial.”

In Karthik's view, he would rank Kohli at the top of the Fab Four, which includes Steve Smith, Kane Williamson, and Joe Root. “I admit my bias, but Kohli deserves the number one spot for his contributions to India and the global sporting arena,” he concluded.

“His legacy will serve as a testament to how Test cricket should be played, emphasizing the intensity and fitness required for sustained excellence over five days, making him a truly exceptional player.”