Should Rohit and Virat Come Out of Retirement to Revive Indian Test Cricket?
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Synopsis
Yograj Singh urges Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to reconsider their retirement from Test cricket to preserve India's legacy in red-ball cricket, especially with crucial matches against England approaching. Their return could be vital for the team's success, with both players still having much to contribute.
Key Takeaways
- Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli should reconsider their retirement for the future of Indian Test cricket.
- The BCCI must provide support to players during challenging times.
- Experience is crucial for the team, especially in important series.
- Players should resist external pressures and fight for their spots.
- Yograj Singh emphasizes the emotional connection fans have with the game.
New Delhi, May 20 (NationPress) Former Indian cricketer Yograj Singh expressed that Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who recently announced their retirement from Test cricket, should reconsider their choices for the sake of the nation's red-ball cricket. The departures of Rohit and Kohli leave the team without its most experienced batsmen ahead of the significant upcoming tour of England, where India is set to engage in a five-match Test series commencing June 20.
The seasoned cricketer, aged 67, who has mentored current players such as Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma, in addition to his son Yuvraj Singh, emphasized that Kohli still possesses valuable years to contribute to the sport.
"Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli must come back from retirement to save Indian Test cricket. This is a moment for national pride, the fans, and the profound connection people have with the game. Virat still has at least a decade of cricket in him. If Rohit seeks my guidance, I will ensure he achieves peak fitness," Yograj conveyed to IANS on Tuesday.
The veteran asserted that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) should extend support to players during challenging periods to prevent them from succumbing to external pressures.
"In 2011, players like Yuvraj Singh, Harbhajan Singh, and Virender Sehwag were abruptly dropped without justification. When Yuvraj decided to retire, I admonished him not to give in to pressure. He was, and continues to be, remarkably fit. Cricketers should strive for their positions rather than yield to external challenges.
"The BCCI needs to act like a guardian—protecting and supporting their players instead of allowing ego or politics to dictate decisions," he remarked.
Yograj revealed that he contacted his son Yuvraj to advise Kohli against retiring from Test cricket, warning him of potential future regrets.
"I urged Yuvi to reach out to Virat and say, 'Don’t repeat the mistake I made'. I believe that, in a few years, they (Rohit and Virat) will look back and wish they had made different choices. Eventually, frustration will emerge, but what will it matter then?'
Kohli concluded his Test career with a remarkable tally of 9,230 runs in 123 matches, boasting a commendable average of 46.85, including 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries. Meanwhile, Rohit finished his red-ball tenure with 4,301 runs in 67 matches, featuring 12 centuries and 18 half-centuries, at an average of 40.57.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the impact of experienced players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli on the Indian Test cricket landscape. Their recent retirements pose significant challenges for the team, especially with critical series on the horizon. Supporting our players through difficult times is essential to maintain the integrity and competitiveness of our cricketing legacy.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli reconsider their retirement?
Yograj Singh believes their experience is invaluable for the team, especially during pivotal matches like the upcoming England tour.
What impact does Kohli's retirement have on Indian cricket?
Kohli's retirement leaves a significant void in the batting lineup, as he is one of the most successful Test batsmen in Indian history.
How can the BCCI support players during tough times?
The BCCI should provide a supportive environment that encourages players to perform without the fear of external pressures or politics.
What were Kohli and Rohit's Test cricket statistics?
Kohli scored 9,230 runs with an average of 46.85, while Rohit amassed 4,301 runs with an average of 40.57 in Test cricket.
What does Yograj Singh recommend for young players?
Yograj advises young players to fight for their spots on the team and not succumb to pressure, drawing from his experiences with past players.
