The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is preparing to engage in high-level discussions with Virat Kohli following reports of the star batter’s intention to step away from Test cricket. A senior, highly influential figure in Indian cricket is expected to meet Kohli soon in an attempt to persuade him to reconsider his decision and continue in the red-ball format.
This crucial meeting is likely to take place before the Test squad selection, tentatively scheduled for May 23. While the venue for the selection committee meeting remains unconfirmed, BCCI is also planning a press conference to announce the new Test captain. The India A squad for the upcoming England tour is also expected to be finalized within the next few days.
BCCI has a history of managing such transitions, as seen in Rohit Sharma’s recent decision to step down from Test captaincy. It is believed that preliminary discussions may have taken place with the influential individual even before Rohit’s formal announcement.
There is cautious optimism within the Board that Kohli, who remains one of India’s most iconic Test players, might be swayed. The BCCI also wants to understand the personal and professional reasons behind his potential exit from the format in which he once averaged over 50. A recent dip in form has brought that average down to around 46.
Notably, Kohli is just 770 runs away from the prestigious 10,000-run milestone in Test cricket, a feat achieved by only a handful of players. With 123 Test appearances and 68 as captain, his continued presence would offer vital experience, especially if the leadership passes to a younger player—most likely Shubman Gill.
While it was initially assumed that Kohli was merely opting out of the England series, fresh indications suggest he may be contemplating a more permanent step back. Kohli has long been credited for reinvigorating India’s commitment to Test cricket, earning praise for his passion and leadership in the longest format.
Despite his underwhelming Test record in England—17 matches, 1096 runs at an average of 33.21, including two centuries and five fifties—his presence in a young squad would be invaluable in what promises to be a challenging series.
The coming days will reveal whether BCCI can convince one of its most decorated cricketers to give Test cricket another chapter.
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