The recent defeat of India in the first Test against England at Headingley has sparked a wave of analysis and commentary from former players. A recurring theme is the perceived lack of intensity in the team, particularly in the absence of Virat Kohli, who retired from Test cricket in May 2025. Echoing these sentiments, former India all-rounder Madan Lal recently voiced his opinion, stating that the team missed the passion and intensity that Kohli brought to the game. This observation aligns with similar comments made by former India head coach Ravi Shastri.

Lal took to social media platform X, posting a concise yet impactful message: "We were missing the passion and intensity Virat Kohli brought to the game. Ravi Shastri was right." This statement underscores the belief that Kohli's influence extended beyond his batting prowess; his presence on the field was a vital component of the team's energy and drive.

Shastri, during his commentary on Day 5 of the Test, had earlier highlighted the absence of a player who could energize the team and confront the opposition head-on, a role that Kohli typically fulfilled. He noted that India needed someone to step up and "do a Kohli job," someone who could be right at the face of the opposition. Shastri emphasized that Kohli's impact wasn't solely about batting; it was about his leadership style, his ability to invigorate his teammates, provoke the opposition, and maintain high energy levels during challenging periods.

This sentiment is further supported by other analysts who suggest that Shubman Gill, the captain in the first Test match against England, was far too defensive with field placements. Overall, the Indian bowlers lacked the spice that was the hallmark of Virat Kohli's captaincy. Gill was reactive rather than proactive as a leader. They missed Virat Kohli, the aggressor in the field.

Kohli's Test career, which concluded prior to the England tour, saw him amass 9,230 runs in 123 matches, including 30 centuries. He also holds the record for the most Test wins as an Indian captain, with 40 victories in 68 matches. His aggressive and passionate approach to the game, particularly in the Test format, made him a formidable force both at home and abroad. Shastri, who worked closely with Kohli during his tenure as head coach, acknowledged the player's unmatched intensity and dedication. He noted that Kohli consistently gave 100% to the team, playing every role with urgency and accountability.

Ricky Ponting has also spoken about Kohli's magnetic pull. He stated that Kohli is a star, a superstar, and has been a superstar of the game for a long time. He's passionate about the way that he plays. He's passionate about his team. He wants to win and he plays with his heart.

While Kohli's retirement from Test cricket was a personal decision, prompted in part by mental fatigue, as revealed by Shastri, its impact on the team's dynamics is now becoming apparent. The leadership void and the absence of his characteristic intensity are being felt, particularly in high-pressure situations. As India navigates the remainder of the Test series against England, the team will need to find a way to compensate for Kohli's absence and cultivate a similar level of passion and aggression on the field.