The Test retirement announcements of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have created significant discussion. These announcements, made ahead of the England tour, were unexpected. Former Indian bowler Karsan Ghavri alleges that the retirements were a result of internal power struggles within the BCCI and the selection committee, and not entirely the players’ decisions.
Ghavri believes Kohli could have played Tests for at least another two years. He also criticized the lack of a farewell for Kohli. Speaking on the Vicky Lalwani show, Ghavri said of Kohli’s retirement, ‘It’s a mystery. Kohli should have played for India for a few more years. But something forced him to retire. The BCCI didn’t even give him a farewell.’
Ghavri also claimed that Rohit and Kohli were victims of internal team management politics. He said, ‘The BCCI has internal politics, which is difficult to understand. I believe this is why they retired early. Rohit Sharma also retired early. He was told to leave. They wanted to stay. But the selectors and the BCCI had different views. It’s a case of petty politics.’
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli had previously retired from the T20I format after the 2024 T20 World Cup. They now only play ODIs. The upcoming ODI series in Australia in October may be their last tour. However, no official statements have been made.