Pride of India is on the line: Sidhu questions timing of Kohli's decision

IANS May 11, 2025 383 views

Virat Kohli's potential Test cricket retirement has sparked a significant debate in Indian cricket. Navjot Singh Sidhu has publicly challenged the timing of Kohli's decision, highlighting the importance of experience in the upcoming England tour. The BCCI is reportedly trying to persuade Kohli to reconsider, given his remarkable record of 9230 runs and leadership in 123 Test matches. Sidhu believes Kohli's absence could significantly impact India's performance, especially with Rohit Sharma already stepping away from Test cricket.

"The pride and prestige of India are on the line" - Navjot Singh Sidhu
Pride of India is on the line: Sidhu questions timing of Kohli's decision
New Delhi, May 11: Former India batter Navjot Singh Sidhu questioned the timing of Virat Kohli's intention to retire from Test cricket ahead of the upcoming five-match Test series in England, starting June 20.

Key Points

1

Kohli plans to retire from Test cricket before England series

2

Sidhu calls timing inappropriate for India's cricket future

3

Kohli has 9230 runs in 123 Tests with 46.85 average

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BCCI attempting to convince him to continue playing

According to sources close to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the 36-year-old stalwart recently communicated his intention to step away from the longest format of the game.

However, the BCCI has not given up. Sources within the board say they are trying to convince Kohli to continue, especially with the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle beginning with the England tour.

"Virat Kohli's decision that he wants to retire has created a stir across the cricketing world. His intention is right, his motive is noble -- that 'the old order must change, yielding place to the new'," Sidhu said in a video posted on his X account.

"But the timing and occasion are not appropriate, because the pride and prestige of India are on the line. We are heading into a tour that is the toughest litmus test even for other Test-playing nations," he added.

The veteran termed Kohli India's "knight in shining armour in England", adding that his absence will leave Men in Blue without much experience with Rohit Sharma already stepping away from Test cricket.

"Why do I say Kohli can be our knight in shining armour in England? Because he has the experience, especially after Rohit Sharma's departure. You can't send an inexperienced side to England," Sidhu added.

Kohli, who made his Test debut in 2011, has represented India in 123 Tests, scoring 9230 runs at an average of 46.85. He also led India in 68 Tests, making him the country's most successful captain in the format. His intensity, fitness, and leadership transformed India into a dominant Test side both at home and overseas.

Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
Sidhu makes a valid point. England tour is no joke - we need our best players. Kohli has carried the team for years, but retiring right before such an important series feels abrupt. Hope BCCI convinces him to stay till WTC cycle ends at least! 🇮🇳🏏
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Priya M.
Respect Kohli's decision - he's given his blood and sweat for Indian cricket. We can't expect him to keep going forever. Time to groom new talent rather than depend on one player. #NextGenReady
A
Arjun S.
Typical Sidhu drama! First he criticizes players, now he's acting like Kohli's PR manager. Let the legend decide his own retirement. England series will be tough, but cricket is a team sport - others need to step up.
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Sunita R.
Emotional moment for Indian cricket fans 😢 Kohli's passion was unmatched. But maybe he knows his body better than anyone. Still, hope he gives us one last England series - those cover drives at Lord's are legendary!
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Vikram J.
This is why we need better transition planning in Indian cricket. Suddenly both Kohli and Rohit gone from Tests? BCCI should have prepared youngsters under their guidance. Now we're in trouble for England tour.
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Neha P.
Whatever happens, King Kohli will always be our Test cricket legend! That 2018 England tour performance was pure gold. But players have right to choose when to exit. Let's respect that and support new team. #ThankYouVirat

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Tags:
Virat Kohli Navjot Singh Sidhu Indian Cricket Test Cricket BCCI England Tour