'Test Cricket Needs Virat': This legendary player urges batting maestro not to hang up his boots

The cricketing world is abuzz with speculation after reports surfaced suggesting Virat Kohli may be considering retirement from Test cricket. The 36-year-old Indian batting maestro, who has been a pillar of the team in the longest format for over a decade, has reportedly approached the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regarding a potential exit from Tests.

However, in a dramatic twist, legendary West Indies batter Brian Lara has stepped in with a passionate endorsement, urging Kohli not to hang up his whites just yet.

Also Read: Virat Kohli firm on his Test retirement decision despite BCCI intervention

Lara’s Powerful Message of Support

Lara, the only man to score 400 in a Test innings, took to Instagram to voice his support. In a heartfelt post, he wrote:

“Test cricket needs Virat!! He is going to be persuaded. He is NOT going to retire from Test cricket. @virat.kohli is going to average above 60 for the remainder of his Test career.”

The post has gone viral, with fans and cricketing experts echoing Lara’s sentiments. The former West Indies captain’s belief in Kohli’s capabilities adds a fresh dimension to the growing debate around the future of one of modern cricket’s finest batsmen.

A Mixed Bag in Australia

Kohli’s recent performance in the 2024–25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy may have contributed to his reported contemplation. Despite a brilliant century in Perth that helped India to a massive 295-run win in the series opener, Kohli’s form dipped as India slumped to a 1-3 series defeat, losing the remaining matches in Melbourne, Adelaide, and Sydney.

The disappointing tour, compounded by India’s failure to qualify for the World Test Championship (WTC) final at Lord’s.

Leadership Void Looming

The pressure has only intensified with Rohit Sharma announcing his retirement from Test cricket, drawing curtains on an 11-year-long red-ball career. With Rohit gone and Kohli potentially stepping aside, the Indian team faces a significant leadership vacuum ahead of their tough away tour to England, starting June 20 at Headingley, Leeds.

WTC Cycle Restart Brings New Hope

India will begin their 2025–27 WTC cycle in England, looking to bounce back strongly. With challenging English conditions awaiting and a new team dynamic in the making, Kohli’s experience and presence at No. 4 could be more crucial than ever.

Whether Kohli ultimately decides to carry on or step aside remains to be seen. But one thing is clear cricketing greats and fans alike aren’t ready to see the end of Virat Kohli in whites.