The recent retirements of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from Test cricket sent ripples through the Indian cricketing fraternity, leaving fans and pundits alike wondering about the future of the national team. However, former India captain Sourav Ganguly has quelled any concerns, expressing his confidence in the depth of talent within the Indian cricket system.
Speaking to news agencies, Ganguly stated that he was "not concerned at all" following the departures of the two modern-day legends. While acknowledging that replacing a "class player" like Virat Kohli would take time, he emphasized that he wasn't surprised by the team's overall resilience. Both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli announced their retirements from Test cricket in May 2025, ahead of India's campaign in the 2025-27 World Test Championship.
Ganguly's optimism stems from his belief in the robust structure of Indian cricket. He highlighted the strength of domestic cricket, the emergence of talent through leagues, and the significant investment associations make in player development. According to him, this comprehensive system ensures a constant supply of quality players ready to step up and fill the void left by senior players.
The former BCCI President also lauded Shubman Gill, the new India Test captain, for his impressive performances, particularly his century on the opening day of the first Test against England in Leeds. Ganguly expressed his happiness with Gill's progress, noting his "massive improvement," especially in away conditions.
The retirements of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have indeed paved the way for younger players like Yashasvi Jaiswal and B Sai Sudharsan to showcase their talent on the international stage. While Sai Sudharsan had a debut to forget, with a four-ball duck against England, Yashasvi Jaiswal has been a regular feature in the Test side since his debut in July 2023, against West Indies.
While Ganguly admitted to being surprised by Virat Kohli's decision to retire from Test cricket, he respected it as a personal choice. He acknowledged the incredible careers both Kohli and Rohit Sharma have had, emphasizing that players should leave the sport on their own terms.
Looking ahead, the key question is who will permanently fill the leadership role in Test cricket. Ganguly recognized the challenge, stating that it's a tough decision and believed the selectors will choose the next skipper based on their deep understanding of the team's needs and the demands of the longest format. He stressed the importance of long-term thinking and considering factors like Jasprit Bumrah's injury concerns when making the decision.
Ultimately, Sourav Ganguly's unwavering faith in the Indian cricket system provides reassurance during a period of transition. His belief that "there will be someone" ready to take on the mantle reflects the confidence in the next generation of Indian cricketers and the enduring strength of the nation's cricketing infrastructure.
