The ongoing Test series between England and India has prompted veteran Congress leader and cricket enthusiast Shashi Tharoor to publicly appeal to Virat Kohli to reconsider his recent retirement from Test cricket. Tharoor's plea comes amidst the thrilling fifth Test match against England, where he feels Kohli's presence is sorely missed.

Kohli, who retired from Test cricket in May 2025 at the age of 36, had a remarkable career, amassing 9,230 runs in 123 matches, with 30 centuries to his name. His retirement, along with that of Rohit Sharma, marked the end of an era for Indian cricket, leaving a void in the team's leadership and batting prowess.

Tharoor expressed that he had been missing Kohli's influence throughout the series but felt it most acutely during the current Test. He emphasized Kohli's "grit and intensity," his "inspirational presence on the field," and his "abundant batting skills" as elements that could have potentially altered the course of the match.

In a heartfelt message shared on social media platform X, Tharoor directly addressed Kohli, questioning if it was "too late to call him out of retirement" and emphatically stating, "Virat, the nation needs you!". This public appeal reflects a broader sentiment among fans and cricket enthusiasts who believe Kohli still has much to offer the Indian Test team.

Kohli's sudden retirement in May 2025, just before the England series and only days after Rohit Sharma also stepped away from the red-ball format, took the cricketing world by surprise. Tharoor, like many others, expressed sadness that Kohli's departure was unexpected and without the opportunity for a farewell Test match on home soil. He questioned whether Kohli had made the decision too soon, particularly with the new World Test Championship cycle on the horizon.

Despite Kohli's absence, the young Indian team has shown resilience and performed admirably throughout the series in England. However, Tharoor suggests that Kohli's experience, leadership, and sheer determination could have provided the edge needed to secure a different outcome in crucial moments.

Tharoor's admiration for Kohli extends beyond his statistical achievements. He acknowledged Kohli's overall cricketing journey but expressed a particular reverence for his performances in the Test format. He recalled meeting Kohli early in his career and recognizing his potential to become a legend.

Kohli himself acknowledged that retiring from Test cricket was not an easy decision but felt that it was the right one for him. He expressed gratitude for the game, his teammates, and the fans who supported him throughout his 14-year Test career.

As India continues its campaign in England and prepares for future Test series, the question of Kohli's return remains a topic of debate and hope among cricket fans. Shashi Tharoor's public appeal encapsulates the sentiment of many who believe that Virat Kohli's contribution to Indian cricket is far from over and that his presence in the Test arena is still invaluable.