Virat Kohli's decision to retire from Test cricket following the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy continues to be a topic of discussion, with many analysts and former players weighing in on the potential impact on his career. Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) bowling coach Andy Bichel recently shared his perspective, suggesting that Kohli's focus will now be sharpened on One Day International (ODI) cricket, drawing parallels between Kohli's mindset and energy to that of Australian legend Ricky Ponting.
Bichel, in an interview with the Times of India, noted that Kohli's withdrawal from Test cricket provides him with a "focus point" to concentrate on the 50-over format. He believes that as long as Kohli maintains his high-scoring form and contributes effectively to the team, his place in the 2027 World Cup squad should be secure. "I think for someone like Virat he is very fit. He's going along really well. Obviously, he still wants to play the IPL. RCB won it last year so he's keen to go back-to-back there and do that. I guess dropping out of Test cricket gives him a focus point, to focus on his 50-over cricket," Bichel stated. He further added, "His currency is runs. He just needs to go out there and keep scoring and if he is, he can make the 2027 World Cup".
Bichel also drew comparisons between Kohli and Ricky Ponting, highlighting their similar approaches to the game. "Virat Kohli is an absolute legend of the game. He always reminds of Ricky Ponting. Ricky played the same game, a very good batter. Virat is one of those players who really took the game on, really energetic and great to watch. Same as Ricky," he said. This comparison alludes to their aggressive style, high energy levels on the field, and their shared passion for the game.
Kohli's Test career was marked by significant achievements. He captained India in 68 Test matches, winning 40, which makes him India's most successful Test captain. His win percentage of 58.82 is the third-best among Test captains who have led in at least 50 Tests, only behind Steve Waugh (71.92) and Ricky Ponting (62.33). Kohli also holds the record for the most Test centuries as an Indian captain, with 20. In addition, he has scored 5,864 runs as a Test captain, the most by any Indian in that role. He also led India to their first-ever Test series victory on Australian soil in 2018/19.
Despite his success, Kohli's retirement from Test cricket wasn't entirely unexpected. In a podcast with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) prior to his announcement, Kohli hinted at the pressures he faced, saying, "At one point, it (attention) did become tough for me because there was just too much happening in my career... It did get very tough on me, and it did get too much in the end".
While some fans expressed disappointment over his decision, Kohli's childhood coach, Rajkumar Sharma, said that Kohli has set an example by quitting Test cricket at the peak of his career. Sharma also acknowledged Kohli's immense contribution to Indian cricket, emphasizing his focus on fitness and overseas victories as captain.
With his focus now primarily on ODI cricket and the IPL, it remains to be seen how Kohli will perform in the coming years. His recent form in the ODI series against Australia, where he bounced back from two consecutive ducks to score an unbeaten match-winning half-century, suggests that he is still a force to be reckoned with. As Bichel pointed out, Kohli's "currency is runs," and if he continues to score consistently, he could very well be a part of India's squad for the 2027 World Cup.
