Key Points

Sarandeep Singh emphasized Virat Kohli's importance to India's Test team ahead of the England tour. He acknowledged Kohli's mental toughness and match-winning ability, calling him irreplaceable. Singh also pointed out the challenge India faces in filling the void left by Kohli and Rohit Sharma. The coach stressed that young players must now rise to the occasion.

Key Points: Sarandeep Singh Says Virat Kohli Was Key Player Ahead of England Tour

  • Sarandeep Singh praises Kohli's mental preparation for England tour
  • Calls Kohli and Rohit irreplaceable in Test cricket
  • Notes pressure on youngsters to step up
  • Highlights Kohli's 14-year career as legendary
2 min read

He was definitely one of the main players: Sarandeep Singh on Virat Kohli's test retirement

Delhi coach Sarandeep Singh reflects on Virat Kohli's Test retirement, calling him a match-winner and highlighting India's challenge in replacing him.

"He was definitely one of the main players, so he had to play there. He was well-prepared this time. – Sarandeep Singh"

By Vipul Kashyap, New Delhi, May 13

Delhi head coach Sarandeep Singh highlighted that Virat Kohli was a key player for India and he felt Kohli was well prepared this time to perform well in the England tour next month.

Singh noted that there is always a little pressure on Virat, but he was mentally prepared for the challenge.

"He was definitely one of the main players, so he had to play there. He was well-prepared this time he is going to perform well in England. Because he was the main player. He was the one who scored a 100 in Australia. Other than that, the game was not going well. So, there is always a little pressure on Virat. He was mentally prepared," Sarandeep Singh told ANI.

Singh also felt that India don't have replacements for Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in test cricket, and said both batters are among the greats of Indian Cricket.

"It will definitely affect them. I believe that we still don't have replacements for Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. They are one of the greats. And they will remain greats. Let's see who takes their place. The match-winning players who used to play, who had the passion to win the match. Their 14 years of career is not a small thing. To play in all three formats. To play in a good position is commendable. Now, the responsibility will increase on the youngsters. Let's see who the player is who can take the captaincy," he added.

On Monday morning, Virat took to Instagram and penned a note that stirred the hearts of many. He confirmed that the days of speculation had turned into reality by closing the curtains on his 14-year-long Test journey. With Virat's exit, the Indian Test setup is threadbare in terms of experience playing on the UK's green, blushing pitches.

In a journey that redefined the demands of the game, Virat's unparalleled contributions saw him rack up 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85, with 30 centuries and 31 fifties and finish as India's fourth-highest run-getter in the format.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
End of an era! Virat brought so much aggression and passion to Test cricket. Who can forget his 2018 England tour performance? 🇮🇳 Hope the youngsters step up now. The transition won't be easy though - we don't have ready replacements for King Kohli.
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Priya M.
While I respect Virat's decision, I feel he had 2-3 more good years in Tests. His fitness level was unmatched! The timing is surprising right before England tour. Hope this doesn't affect team morale. #ThankYouKohli
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Ankit S.
Sarandeep Singh is absolutely right - replacing Virat in Tests is like replacing Sachin in 2013. Impossible! But every generation produces new heroes. Maybe Gill or Iyer can take responsibility now. The real test will be on those swinging English pitches!
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Neha T.
Emotional day for Indian cricket fans 😢 Virat changed how India plays Test cricket abroad. Remember Adelaide 2014? That century against all odds! Hope BCCI plans proper farewell matches. He deserves standing ovation from every stadium!
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Sanjay R.
Respect his decision but timing could've been better. England tour would've benefited from his experience. That said, 14 years at top level is incredible achievement. 9000+ runs with that intensity - only Kohli could do it! 🏏
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Meena P.
The real legacy is how he made Test cricket cool again for young fans! My 12-year-old watches Tests because of Kohli's energy. Hope he continues mentoring young players. Also, can we please stop comparing eras? Each great has their own place in history.

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