BCCI Calls On A "Highly Influential Cricketing Figure" To Stop Virat Kohli's Potential Test Retirement: Report

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has called on a highly influential cricketing figure to meet the talismanic batter in the coming days and convince him to reverse his potential Test cricket retirement plans. On Saturday, IANS reported that Kohli has reportedly communicated his desire to retire from Test cricket to the BCCI ahead of the important five-match series in England, starting on June 20. But the BCCI had urged Kohli to reconsider his decision, citing the important assignments coming up in the format, including the England tour.

"Yes, to convince Virat Kohli to reconsider his potential Test cricket retirement plans, the BCCI has called on a highly influential cricketing figure to speak to the talismanic cricketer in the coming days and convince him to prolong his career in the longest format, especially considering the tour of England is around the corner," sources told IANS.

India's five-match Test match tour of England also marks the start of a new World Test Championship (WTC) cycle for them. This agency also understands that thoughts were initially over Kohli not willing to be a part of the team for the England tour, but it came to light that he has contemplated leaving the format which he always loved playing, as known from his vocal words around it while captaining India in 68 Tests.

"That highly influential cricketing figure was also the one who spoke to Rohit Sharma as well, although that was a completely different scenario, as he later announced his retirement from Tests."

"Though Kohli is a person who doesn't really change his mind quickly, the highly influential cricketing figure's words may have some influence on his decision-making and thoughts over his Test cricket future," added