Will India Miss Virat Kohli’s Fighting Spirit in England Tests?
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Synopsis
As India prepares for the upcoming Test series against England, captain Ben Stokes reflects on the absence of Virat Kohli. Stokes emphasizes the impact of Kohli's fighting spirit on the game, marking a significant transition for Indian cricket as they enter a new era under Shubman Gill's leadership.
Key Takeaways
- Virat Kohli's retirement marks the end of an era for Indian cricket.
- Shubman Gill takes over as captain, ushering in a new leadership phase.
- The series against England is crucial for both teams as it starts the new WTC cycle.
- India aims to win a Test series in England for the first time since 2007.
- Stokes acknowledges the impact of Kohli's absence on the series.
New Delhi, June 18 (NationPress) England's captain and all-rounder Ben Stokes expressed admiration for the iconic batsman Virat Kohli, stating that India will undoubtedly miss his fighting spirit when the two nations clash in a five-match Test series beginning June 20. Stokes noted that it will feel strange not to see a number 18 jersey on the pitch.
The Indian team undertakes the significant challenge of this five-Test tour without key players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who both recently announced their retirement from Test cricket just before the series. New captain Shubman Gill will lead the team as they navigate this new phase.
In a video shared on Instagram by England Cricket, Stokes remarked, "What India will miss is his fighting spirit and competitiveness in the game, his desire to win. He has truly made number 18 his own, hasn’t he? It’s going to be a strange sight not seeing that number on any Indian shirt, but he has been exceptional for them for many years."
Kohli concluded a remarkable 14-year career, amassing 9,230 runs in 123 matches at an average of 46.85, including 30 centuries. He retired as the fourth-most successful Test captain, trailing only Graeme Smith (53 wins), Ricky Ponting (48 wins), and Steve Waugh (41 wins).
Stokes also shared that he texted Kohli following the announcement of his retirement, expressing, "It’s going to be a shame not to play against him because I love competing with Virat. We both share a similar mindset on the field, making it a true battle.”
“He has been phenomenal, and I’m certain he has received a lot of accolades in India. He has also garnered respect from players here, having performed exceptionally well against England,” Stokes added.
This England tour marks the beginning of a new chapter for Indian cricket under Gill's leadership. The five-match series also initiates the 2025–27 ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle for both teams.
India will kick off the series with the first Test at Headingley Cricket Ground on June 20. The second Test will take place at Edgbaston starting July 2, followed by the third Test at the iconic Lord’s on July 10.
Both teams will then head to Manchester for the fourth Test at Old Trafford on July 23, concluding the series at the Kennington Oval in London starting July 31.
India aims to achieve a Test series victory in England for the first time since 2007.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the impact of Virat Kohli's retirement on both Indian cricket and the sporting world at large. His absence in the upcoming series against England highlights a significant transition for India, as they move forward without one of their most influential players. This shift not only challenges the team's dynamics but also opens doors for new leadership under Shubman Gill. The cricket community will be closely watching how this unfolds.
NationPress
18/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Virat Kohli's absence significant for India?
Virat Kohli's fighting spirit and leadership have been critical for India's success. His absence represents a major shift in the team's dynamics and strategy.
Who will lead the Indian cricket team now?
Shubman Gill has been appointed as the new captain following the retirements of Kohli and Rohit Sharma.
When does the Test series against England start?
The Test series begins on June 20, with the first match at Headingley Cricket Ground.
What is the significance of this Test series?
This series marks the beginning of the 2025–27 ICC World Test Championship cycle and is crucial for both teams.
How many Tests will be played in this series?
There will be a total of five Test matches in this series.
