'Does not matter how much talent...': England great decodes reason behind Virat Kohli's sudden retirement from Tests

Virat Kohli retired from Test cricket ahead of the series against England. (Photo: BCCI)

Virat Kohli sent shockwaves through the cricket world when he announced his retirement from Test cricket recently. Regarded as one of the best red-ball leaders, the Indian star played a significant role in the team even after stepping down as captain. However, his form dipped in the previous season, during which he could score only a single century in his last 10 Test matches. The dry patch raised questions about his place in the playing eleven, and soon, an unexpected decision to call time on his Test career followed.

There has been much speculation about why Kohli retired from the Test format, and former England cricketer Geoffrey Boycott has offered a fresh perspective.

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According to the England legend, the Indian star may have grown tired of playing 'too much cricket'. Last year, Kohli retired from T20Is after winning the World Cup but remained a regular in ODIs and Tests. After winning the Champions Trophy earlier this year, Kohli played in the IPL for RCB and ended the franchise’s 18-year title drought this month.

“With so much international cricket played by India, and so little rest, it takes its toll and the mind becomes fatigued. It does not matter how much talent or experience you have, if you are not mentally fresh and up for the challenge, then it becomes draining,” Boycott wrote for The Telegraph.

If Virat Kohli hadn't stepped away from Test cricket, he was expected to travel to England right after the IPL final to join India’s Test series preparations.

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His retirement came in tandem with Rohit Sharma’s, marking the end of an era for Indian red-ball cricket. With both senior players out, Shubman Gill has been handed the responsibility of leading the Test side. He will also slot into the crucial No. 4 position in the batting lineup, while Rishabh Pant, now the vice-captain, is set to continue at No. 5.