Amidst swirling speculation about Virat Kohli potentially reversing his Test retirement, Ravichandran Ashwin has firmly shut down any talk of a comeback, emphasizing that Kohli's decision should be respected and celebrated. Kohli, who retired from Test cricket in May 2025, wants to focus solely on ODIs.
Ashwin addressed the rumors on his YouTube channel "Ash Ki Baat," highlighting that Kohli's decision to retire from Tests was a well-thought-out one, not an impulsive reaction. "What's there to think about? Whatever decision we take, it is well thought out. No one decides about retirement overnight," Ashwin stated. He expressed confidence that Kohli, a player of immense caliber, would have carefully considered all aspects before making such a significant decision. "I am fairly certain that if Virat retired from Tests, he was quite clear that he wanted to do so. Nobody makes instinctive decisions. We have all crossed that road," Ashwin added.
The discussion around Kohli's Test future resurfaced after his scintillating century against South Africa in Ranchi. This led to renewed calls from fans eager to see him back in the Test arena. However, Kohli himself has confirmed that he will only play in the ODI format moving forward.
Ashwin acknowledged the fans' desire to see Kohli in all formats, stating, "Sure, as audience and fans, we all want to see Virat Kohli". However, he stressed that Test cricket is a "different kettle of fish," and Kohli has made his decision regarding that format.
Furthermore, Ashwin pointed out that the Indian team is currently undergoing a transition phase in Test cricket. Revisiting Kohli's decision would not be the right approach, as the team needs to move forward. He urged fans to instead cherish the opportunities to watch both Kohli and Rohit Sharma play while they are still active. "Let's make one thing very clear. The decision has been made; revisiting it is not the right thing to do. The team has also gone into transition," Ashwin asserted.
Ashwin cautioned against dwelling on the past and wishing for players to return after they retire. "For however long they play, let us celebrate them as long as they are playing. As I said, life moves on very fast. Time does not wait for anyone. It is very important that we realise that the time is less. So it is better that we enjoy whatever they are doing,” Ashwin added.
Kohli's Test career saw him amass 9,230 runs in 123 matches, with an average of 46.85 and 30 centuries. While he fell short of the 10,000-run mark, he remains one of India's most celebrated Test cricketers.
