Did Rohit and Virat Surprise Us With Their Test Retirements?
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Synopsis
Dilip Vengsarkar shares his surprise over Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's unexpected retirements from Test cricket, believing they might have chosen to retire after the England tour. Their departures create a void in the team, with upcoming players waiting to seize the opportunity.
Key Takeaways
- Dilip Vengsarkar expresses surprise at the retirements.
- Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli leave a significant gap in the Test team.
- The selectors will look for new talent from domestic competitions.
- Shreyas Iyer is highlighted as a potential replacement.
- India's next Test series begins on June 20.
Mumbai, May 23 (NationPress) Former Indian cricketer Dilip Vengsarkar voiced his astonishment at the recent retirements of batting legends Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from Test cricket. He believed that the duo would likely retire after the upcoming England tour, which is set to commence on June 20.
Both players left Test cricket earlier this month but continue to participate in ODIs. Their exit has created a significant gap in the Indian Test squad, especially with the new World Test Championship (WTC) cycle starting with the crucial England tour.
"Both are exceptional cricketers, and their impact on Indian cricket is monumental. I was taken aback because there is a five-match Test series in England coming up. I thought they would retire after that tour, but they made their decision before it. Ultimately, it’s their choice," Vengsarkar told IANS.
Kohli concluded his Test career with a remarkable 9,230 runs from 123 matches at an average of 46.85, which includes 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries. In contrast, Rohit ended his red-ball career with 4,301 runs in 67 matches, featuring 12 centuries and 18 half-centuries at an average of 40.57.
In June 2024, both Rohit and Kohli announced their retirement from T20Is following India's victory over South Africa to claim the 2024 Men’s T20 World Cup.
"Their experience is invaluable, and they have consistently performed well in England, making this a significant loss. However, younger players have excelled in the India A team and first-class cricket, and they will now get a chance to prove themselves in the national team," he added.
Rohit’s retirement indicates that a new captain will lead the Indian side during the five-match Test series against England starting June 20.
When asked about potential replacements for Rohit and Kohli in the Indian Test setup, Vengsarkar said, "Identifying successors is challenging, as it is up to Ajit Agarkar and the selectors. They are closely monitoring first-class matches such as the Irani Cup, Ranji Trophy, and Duleep Trophy, and it is ultimately their decision."
Vengsarkar also praised Shreyas Iyer for his stellar form. Iyer performed exceptionally well in the Champions Trophy 2025, scoring 243 runs in five matches at an average of 48.60. He carried this momentum into IPL 2025, leading his team (Punjab Kings) to the playoffs for the first time in 11 years.
In doing so, Iyer became the first captain to lead three different franchises into the IPL playoffs (Delhi Capitals in 2020 and Kolkata Knight Riders in 2024). His current runs tally in IPL 2025 stands at 435, including two half-centuries.
"He is undoubtedly a talented player with an impressive track record, and his experience can significantly contribute in filling the gap left by Kohli's retirement from both T20I and Test formats," stated the veteran when discussing Iyer's potential to step up.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the significant changes in Indian cricket following the retirements of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Their experience and contributions have shaped the game in India, and while their departures create challenges, it opens up new opportunities for emerging talent. The selectors must now focus on building a robust team for the future.
NationPress
02/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli retire from Test cricket?
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli retired to make way for younger talent and possibly to focus on limited-overs formats, especially with significant tournaments ahead.
What are the statistics of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in Test cricket?
Kohli scored 9,230 runs in 123 matches at an average of 46.85, while Rohit amassed 4,301 runs in 67 matches at an average of 40.57.
When is the next Test series for India?
The next Test series for India is against England, starting on June 20.
Who could replace Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the Test team?
Potential replacements will be determined by selectors based on performances in first-class cricket and upcoming tournaments.
What impact will this have on the Indian cricket team?
The retirements will create a void but also provide opportunities for emerging players to establish themselves in the national squad.
