Virat Kohli announced his retirement from Test cricket last month, ushering in a new era of transition for Indian cricket.
Geoffrey Boycott Attributes Virat Kohli Test Retirement to Mental Fatigue
Virat Kohli’s shock decision to retire from Test cricket last month sent ripples through the cricketing world. Long regarded as one of the fiercest advocates for the red-ball format, Kohli had not only led India to historic heights during his captaincy but also remained a core figure in the side even after stepping down as skipper. However, his form had begun to waver in the 2024/25 season, where he managed just a single century in 10 Tests. The prolonged slump raised some questions about his place in the XI, ultimately leading to an unexpected but defining end to a storied Test career.
Despite his poor form, many still considered Virat Kohli a certainty for the five-Test series in England before his surprising retirement from the format in May. While speculation has swirled around the reasons behind his decision, former England batter Geoffrey Boycott has offered a fresh perspective.
According to Boycott, Virat Kohli may have been mentally and physically exhausted by India’s relentless cricketing schedule. Though he had already retired from T20Is, Kohli remained a regular in ODIs and Tests and played a crucial role in India’s Champions Trophy win in March. He then turned out for Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the IPL, helping them secure a long-awaited title this month.
“With so much international cricket played by India, and so little rest, it takes its toll and the mind becomes fatigued. It does not matter how much talent or experience you have, if you are not mentally fresh and up for the challenge, then it becomes draining,” Boycott wrote for The Telegraph.
Had Kohli not retired, he would have likely flown to England immediately after the IPL final to join Team India’s preparations for the series.
Transition era
Alongside Kohli, Rohit Sharma also announced his retirement from the format, paving the way for a generational shift in Indian Test cricket. Shubman Gill has been named the new Test captain and will also succeed Kohli at the crucial No. 4 position in the batting order. Rishabh Pant, freshly appointed as vice-captain, will continue to bat at No. 5, solidifying his role as a senior figure in the lineup.
India are set to begin this new era on June 20 with the first Test at Headingley against England, which also marks the start of the team’s new World Test Championship cycle.