Speaking to a leading sports channel, Shastri shared that Kohli had given him a call shortly before making his Test retirement public. “Yes, Virat did speak to me,” Shastri said. “I was taken aback. He surprised me with the timing, but knowing Virat, once his mind is made up, he doesn’t hesitate.”
Kohli, who had earlier stepped down from Test captaincy in early 2022, officially retired from Test cricket earlier this year after a glittering career spanning more than a decade. With 8,848 runs in 113 matches and 29 centuries, Kohli’s name is etched among the modern greats of the red-ball game.
While the cricketing world debated over his decision, Shastri emphasized that Kohli’s choice was deeply personal. “He’s always been someone who follows his instincts. Whether it was giving up T20 captaincy or stepping away from Tests, he does what feels right to him,” Shastri added.
The former coach, who shared a close and successful partnership with Kohli during their time leading Team India, acknowledged that he respected the decision, even if it came earlier than expected. “I would have liked to see him play a bit more, especially with the World Test Championship around the corner. But he’s done enough to walk away with his head held high.”
Kohli’s exit from Test cricket has left a void in Indian cricket, both in terms of performance and leadership. Yet, as Shastri pointed out, it also marks the beginning of a new chapter for both Kohli and the Indian team.
“Virat’s given his all to Indian cricket. If he felt it was time to move on, we have to respect that. Now it’s up to the next generation to carry the torch,” Shastri concluded.
As fans digest the end of an era, Kohli’s legacy as a passionate leader and fierce competitor continues to resonate. And with confirmations like Shastri’s, the personal side of that bold decision is finally coming into view.
Ravi Shastri Confirms Virat Kohli Spoke to Him Before Test Retirement: “He Surprised Me”
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