Virat Kohli Rejects BCCI Demand to Reconsider; Retirement Announcement Likely Soon

The whole cricket fraternity was given a big shock when reports emerged that star Indian batter Virat Kohli has informed the BCCI about his decision to retire from Test cricket.

But with a big away series looming against England, the BCCI and the chief selector Ajit Agarkar have been busy trying to convince the star batter.

However, according to the latest reports by the Times of India (TOI), Virat Kohli has rejected BCCI’s urge to reconsider his decision.

Virat Kohli’s decision to retire from Test cricket could be a big blow to the Indian team before they head to England for a 5 match series. Following captain Rohit Sharma’s retirement announcement, Virat Kohli’s retirement could mean India will have to tour England with an inexperienced line-up.

As such, the BCCI has been working hard to convince Kohli to join the team on the England tour. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar has been personally involved in a conversation with the star batter. However, recent reports state that Kohli has rejected BCCI’s urge to reconsider.

According to a report by the Times of India, Virat Kohli is adamant on his decision. “Kohli had informed the selectors two weeks ago (about his desire to quit Tests). They were trying to persuade him to play in the Test series against England. However, he is still firm on his stance. The final call will come close to the selection meeting next week,” a source was quoted as saying.

Virat Kohli has been one of the best batter in the format for Team India. However, his recent lean patch during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-2025 saw lots of criticism thrown at him.

In the series vs Australia, Kohli scored a century in the first match but had a series to forget in the next four matches. Kohli scored 190 runs in 9 innings, including 100 unbeaten in the 1st Test. His next best score was 36 runs in the 4th Test. The series of bad performances saw his average drop well below 50.

When Virat Kohli could announce his retirement decision?

If BCCI and chief selector Ajit Agarkar fail to convince Virat Kohli to join the Indian team for the England series, we could expect a retirement announcement from Virat Kohli very soon.

The BCCI is reportedly set to pick the Indian team squad for the England 5 match Test series on May 23. In that case, Virat Kohli will have to officially announce his retirement decision before the selectors pick the squad.