As India teetered on the brink of defeat in the fifth and final Test against England at The Oval, a familiar question resurfaced: could Virat Kohli's presence have changed the outcome? The debate was fueled by an emotional plea from Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, who voiced the sentiments of many Indian cricket fans.

India faced a tense situation on Day 4 of the fifth Test, with England chasing a target of 374 runs to win the match and secure the series. After a shaky start, with England at 106/3, a formidable 195-run partnership between Harry Brook and Joe Root swung the momentum in England's favor. Both batsmen scored centuries, putting England in a commanding position. However, India fought back, taking quick wickets and leaving England at 339/6 when bad light and rain halted play. England needed just 35 more runs to win, while India required four wickets to level the series.

Tharoor took to social media platform X to express his longing for Kohli's presence on the field. "I've been missing @imVkohli a few times during this series, but never as much as in this Test match," he wrote. "His grit and intensity, his inspirational presence in the field, not to mention his abundant batting skills, might have led to a different outcome. Is it too late to call him out of retirement? Virat, the nation needs you!".

Kohli had announced his retirement from Test cricket in May of 2025, bringing an end to his 14-year red-ball career. The decision, according to Kohli, was deeply personal. While he had been away from the public eye, his absence was felt sharply as India struggled.

Tharoor's sentiment echoed the thoughts of many fans who missed Kohli's aggressive approach and leadership. Some observers noted that the team missed Kohli's experience and on-field energy in crucial situations. Despite the strong performances of Shubman Gill, who has filled Kohli's No. 4 spot and is set to be the highest run-scorer in the series, the middle order has been inconsistent.

The question remains whether Kohli would have made a difference in the fifth Test. India's batting depth has been a topic of discussion, and missed opportunities, such as Mohammed Siraj stepping onto the boundary cushion while catching Harry Brook, have been costly. Ultimately, whether Kohli's return is a possibility remains to be seen, but the emotional appeal highlights his enduring impact on Indian cricket.