Why Was R Sridhar Left Stunned by Kohli's Test Retirement?
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Synopsis
R Sridhar, the former fielding coach for the Indian cricket team, shares his shock over Virat Kohli's unexpected Test retirement. As a witness to Kohli's transformative leadership, Sridhar reflects on the impact of Kohli’s 14-year career and what his departure means for Indian cricket.
Key Takeaways
- R Sridhar expressed shock at Kohli's retirement.
- Kohli ended his career with 9,230 runs and 30 centuries.
- His leadership changed the culture of Indian cricket.
- Kohli's retirement is a significant loss for the upcoming England tour.
- The insights gained by young players during Kohli's tenure are invaluable.
New Delhi, May 14 (NationPress) R Sridhar, the former fielding coach for the Indian men's cricket team, expressed his utter shock at the unexpected announcement of Virat Kohli's retirement from Test cricket. Sridhar noted his good fortune to have been part of the national team during Kohli's captaincy from 2015 to 2021, which saw him become India's most accomplished Test captain.
In a post on Instagram, Kohli revealed his immediate retirement from Test cricket, bringing an end to a remarkable 14-year career where he amassed 9,230 runs in 123 matches, averaging 46.85 with a total of 30 centuries and 31 fifties, including a top score of 254 not out.
“Who can forget his iconic words at Lords, ‘Let’s give them 60 hours of hell’? Honestly, I am shocked by Virat Kohli’s sudden retirement announcement from Test cricket,” Sridhar stated.
“I was privileged to witness his entire captaincy journey, characterized by his passion, resilience, and a relentless drive to win. His integrity and fearlessness propelled Indian cricket forward,” Sridhar added in a video shared on Coaching Beyond’s Instagram on Wednesday.
During Kohli’s leadership, India recorded 40 victories against 17 losses in 68 matches, including a historic Test series win in Australia in 2018-19. Following a defeat in South Africa, Kohli resigned as Test captain in early 2022.
Recently, Kohli faced challenges in maintaining consistent performance in Tests, noted by his mere 190 runs across nine innings in the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which India lost 3-1. Sridhar, who is currently conducting a ten-day fielding camp for the Sri Lanka national teams in Colombo, stated that Kohli's absence from the format is a significant loss for the team, especially with a five-match tour of England scheduled to commence on June 20.
“Regarding his captaincy, his intensity and aggression, along with his adept use of fast bowlers, were remarkable. Since he took charge in 2015, I am grateful to have witnessed it closely. He transformed the culture around fitness and fielding, emphasizing the importance of a balanced side with five bowlers and batters taking responsibility,” Sridhar concluded.
“Since then, India has never looked back in Test cricket. The insights young cricketers gained during his time in the dressing room are irreplaceable. His absence is a tremendous loss for Indian cricket. I am stunned, and I hope his legacy endures forever,” he wrapped up.
Point of View
I hold a firm belief that Virat Kohli's retirement from Test cricket marks a pivotal moment in the sport's landscape. His leadership and extraordinary talent have set new benchmarks for excellence in Indian cricket. While his departure is a significant loss, it also opens the door for emerging talents, ensuring the evolution of the sport continues in India. We remain committed to delivering accurate and timely updates on this unfolding story.
NationPress
02/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted Virat Kohli's retirement from Test cricket?
Virat Kohli announced his retirement from Test cricket unexpectedly via an Instagram post, ending a remarkable 14-year career.
What were Kohli's achievements in Test cricket?
Kohli scored 9,230 runs in 123 matches, achieving an average of 46.85, with 30 centuries and 31 fifties.
How did R Sridhar react to Kohli's retirement?
R Sridhar expressed his shock and emphasized the significant impact of Kohli's leadership on Indian cricket.
What does Kohli's retirement mean for Indian cricket?
Kohli's retirement is viewed as a substantial loss, especially with upcoming matches, but it also allows room for emerging players.
What was Kohli's captaincy record?
Under Kohli's captaincy, India achieved 40 wins and 17 losses in 68 Test matches.
