Ravi Shastri Confirms Virat Kohli Spoke To Him On Test Retirement

Virat Kohli’s sudden decision to retire from Test cricket sent shockwaves through the cricketing world. Now, former India head coach Ravi Shastri has confirmed that Kohli reached out to him before making the announcement, offering a rare glimpse into the personal deliberations behind this landmark moment in Indian cricket.

The Private Conversation That Preceded the Announcement

Kohli’s Call to Shastri

Just a week before his official announcement, Virat Kohli contacted Ravi Shastri to discuss his intentions. Shastri, who shared a close and successful partnership with Kohli during their years together with Team India, revealed that the conversation left him both surprised and convinced that Kohli’s mind was made up.

“I did speak to him about it, I think a week before that [his announcement] and his mind was very clear that he had given us everything. There were no regrets,” Shastri told The ICC Review.

Despite Shastri’s personal belief that Kohli had “two or three years of Test cricket left in him,” the coach respected Kohli’s clarity and conviction.

Why Did Virat Kohli Retire from Test Cricket?

Mental and Physical Toll

Kohli’s decision was not due to physical fitness-he remains among the fittest in the squad-but rather the mental exhaustion that comes with years at the top.

Shastri described Kohli as “mentally fried,” explaining that when a player’s mind is done, it sends a message to the body, regardless of physical condition.

No Regrets, No Doubts

Kohli assured Shastri that he had “no regrets” about retiring and felt he had given everything possible to Indian cricket.

The former captain’s achievements-123 Tests, 9,230 runs, 30 centuries, and countless iconic moments-cemented his legacy as one of India’s greatest.

The Legacy of the Shastri-Kohli Era

Ravi Shastri and Virat Kohli formed one of the most successful captain-coach duos in Indian Test history. Together, they:

Won India’s first-ever Test series in Australia.
Achieved consecutive series wins in the West Indies.
Broke a 22-year winless streak in Sri Lanka.
Consistently challenged top teams in South Africa and England.

Shastri emphasized that Kohli had “achieved everything possible” in his Test career, leaving no unfinished business.

Reactions from the Cricketing World

Kohli’s retirement sparked speculation and debate, with fans and experts wondering if the decision was abrupt or influenced by external factors. However, both Shastri and former South Africa batter Daryll Cullinan agreed that Kohli’s struggles with form and the mental demands of Test cricket likely played a role in his timing.

What’s Next for Virat Kohli?

While Kohli’s Test career has ended, he remains active in limited-overs cricket. His focus now shifts to white-ball formats, where his experience and leadership continue to be invaluable for Team India.

Conclusion

Virat Kohli’s decision to retire from Test cricket was deeply personal, shaped by years of dedication and an honest assessment of his mental readiness. Ravi Shastri’s confirmation of their private conversation highlights the mutual respect and understanding between two of Indian cricket’s modern giants. As Kohli steps away from the red-ball arena, his legacy as a champion and leader remains unchallenged.

FAQs

1. Did Virat Kohli consult anyone before retiring from Test cricket?

Yes, Kohli spoke with former head coach Ravi Shastri about his decision a week before announcing his retirement, confirming his mind was clear and he had no regrets.

2. Why did Virat Kohli retire from Test cricket now?

Kohli cited mental exhaustion and a sense of fulfillment in his career achievements as primary reasons, despite being physically fit and capable of continuing.