Former West Indies captain Brian Lara believes Virat Kohli will be “persuaded” to continue playing Test cricket and won’t retire.
Brian Lara Confident Virat Kohli Will Continue in Test Cricket, Predicts Strong Return
Amid growing speculation regarding Virat Kohli’s potential retirement from Test cricket, former West Indies captain Brian Lara has expressed firm belief that the star batter will continue in the longest format of the game. Brian Lara, a legend in the world of cricket and holder of the record for the most runs in a single Test innings (400 not out), stated that Kohli would be “persuaded” to stay in Test cricket. Lara emphasized the crucial role Kohli plays in the format, suggesting that Test cricket needs players like him to maintain its relevance and excitement.
Despite Kohli’s recent struggles, including a lack of centuries in the past five years and his underwhelming performance in the recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy where he scored just 190 runs in nine innings, Lara remains optimistic. He boldly predicted that Kohli would average 60 for the remainder of his Test career, signaling his confidence in Kohli’s ability to turn things around.
Reports emerged that Kohli had informed the BCCI of his desire to retire from Tests, but the Indian cricket board is reportedly working to persuade him to participate in the upcoming five-match series against England, scheduled to begin on June 20.
Kohli’s underwhelming returns in Tests
Virat Kohli’s performance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy saw him score just 190 runs in nine innings, including one century. A recurring issue for the batter was his tendency to fish outside the off stump, which led to his downfall against the Australian pacers, including Josh Hazlewood, Scott Boland, and Mitchell Starc. Kohli’s struggles have raised concerns, particularly after the recent dip in his form.
Ahead of the IPL, Kohli made a significant statement, suggesting that his last Test match in Australia could be behind him. Reflecting on the disappointment of his recent performances, Kohli said, “If you ask me the intensity of how disappointed I’ve been… for me the most recent Australia tour would be the one that’s most fresh. So, it might feel the most intense to me.” He further noted the uncertainty of playing future tours, stating, “I might not have an Australia tour again in me in four years’ time.”
Kohli, whose prime years in Tests spanned from 2014 to 2019, has seen his Test average drop from the high 50s to 46 due to inconsistent performances in the last five years. With 123 Tests under his belt, Kohli has yet to surpass the 10,000-run mark in the format, though he remains India’s most successful Test captain, having led in 68 matches.