The broadcaster who recently posed a question about a potential retirement U-turn to Virat Kohli has revealed that he consulted with the cricketer and proceeded only after receiving his express permission. This comes amidst swirling rumors regarding Kohli's possible return to Test cricket following his retirement from the format earlier this year in May.
The rumors gained traction after India's recent 2-0 Test series defeat against South Africa, which led to criticism of the team's performance and sparked speculation about the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) potentially approaching Kohli to reconsider his retirement. The Indian team has faced a troubling decline in Test cricket, suffering two home series whitewashes in the last 12 months. This poor performance has amplified calls for experienced players like Kohli to return and bolster the team.
However, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia has firmly dismissed these rumors, stating that the board has not approached Kohli about reversing his Test retirement. In an interview with Aaj Tak, Saikia clarified that there have been no conversations with Kohli regarding this matter and urged the media not to give weight to unsubstantiated rumors. "What's being said about Virat Kohli is just a rumour. There has been no conversation with Kohli about this. Do not give weight to rumours. Nothing of that sort has happened," Saikia stated.
Kohli, who retired from Test cricket on May 12, 2025, after representing India in 123 matches, has amassed 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85, including 30 centuries. He remains active in the ODI format and recently scored his 52nd ODI century against South Africa, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar's record.
Despite the BCCI's denial, the speculation surrounding Kohli's return to Test cricket highlights the void his absence has created in the team. Some former cricketers have voiced their support for Kohli's return if he is willing to reconsider his decision. Kevin Pietersen, the former England captain, emphasized that if Kohli and Rohit Sharma are considering a Test comeback, it should be taken "very, very seriously". He also noted the importance of ensuring the survival of Test cricket and that the biggest stars should be encouraged to participate.
While Kohli has not addressed the rumors directly, his hint at a possible T20I comeback for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics has fueled further speculation about his future in international cricket. Kohli jokingly stated that he might "sneak in for one game" if India reaches the gold medal match.
The upcoming Test assignment for Team India is against Afghanistan, with a one-off Test match scheduled for next year. Whether Kohli will be part of that remains to be seen, but for now, the BCCI maintains that no discussions have taken place regarding his return to Test cricket.
