Rohit Sharma announced his retirement from Test cricket on May 7, 2025 following which Virat Kohli made a sudden announcement of his retirement from Tests on May 12, 2025. Both the legends retired within a span of 5 days and their departure has now left a big void. Rohit Sharma was 38 while Virat Kohli was 36 and the sudden announcement came as a shocker for cricketing world, Kohli was considered to be the fittest player of the Indian Team and matched the relentless demands of Test cricket.
“They Must Have Realised It Was Time”
Former India bowling coach Paras Mhambrey in conversation with Hindustan Times revealed that both the veterans had a realisation that they won’t be able to continue for the next five years.
“Virat didn’t have five years of test cricket left in him. You knew that, right? Their individual battles that they fought, they must have realised that it was time,” Mhambrey told Hindustan Times
Also Read: India In Test cricket Without Virat Kohli: A New Dawn Or Downfall?
“Not As Motivated”, Mhambrey On Kohli & Rohit’s Retirement
“They always say how valuable they could be in their contribution. And sometimes, it’s the motivation bit. Maybe they were not as motivated to play that format. They’ll not be able to give their best to that format. And that’s the way they approach. So very selfless approach, both of them,” said Mhambrey
Also Read: ENG Vs IND: Harshit Rana To Join India’s Test Squad? Report Reveals The Truth!
Virat Kohli & Rohit Sharma Will Be Playing The ODIs
“Sometimes you are not in the frame of mind to go through the grind. If I’m not there 100%, I would rather just be honest and say that, I’m good in one format. Let me focus on the other format, which I can be more useful for the team,”
Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will now be seen playing only in the ODI format, they have the aim of playing the 2027 ODI World Cup.
