Virat Kohli set to return to Test cricket? BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia breaks silence

Is Virat Kohli ready to make a comeback in Test cricket after India’s discouraging whitewash against South Africa? Following numerous rumors doing the rounds on social media, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has responded and explained its stance on the matter.

For those who don’t know, Kohli last participated in a Test match during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in January and announced his retirement from the format along with Rohit Sharma in May. Shubman Gill stepped in as captain and took over Kohli’s fourth position. India drew 2-2 with England in its first series after the legendary duo left the longest format, and defeated the West Indies 2-0 at home in the two-match series. However, India’s prospects in Test cricket came under scrutiny after a 2-0 defeat at home to the Proteas; This marks the second home Test series defeat in two years since Gautam Gambhir took over the leadership.

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia addressed the rumours, firmly denying any approach towards Kohli by the Indian cricket governing body.

Saikia told India Today: “What is being said about Virat Kohli is just a rumour. There was no discussion with Kohli in this regard. Don’t give weight to the rumours. Nothing of the kind happened.”

Former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen has sparked a debate online by advocating the return of both Rohit and Kohli for the sake of the future of Test cricket.

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In his 14-year Test career, which began with his debut against the West Indies in Kingston in 2011, Kohli has amassed 9,230 runs in 123 matches at an average of 46.85, including 30 centuries and 31 fifties. He stands as India’s most successful Test captain, having led the team to victory in 40 of 68 Tests.

Rohit’s Test journey began in 2013; On this journey he played in 67 matches and scored 4301 runs at an average of 40.6, comprising 12 centuries and 18 half-centuries. His highest score was an impressive 212 runs. Following the retirement of Rohit and Kohli from Test, Shubman Gill was named captain in this format and Rishabh Pant took up the role of vice-captain.

As far as Kohli is concerned, he silenced his critics with an impressive knock of 135 off 120 balls in the first ODI against South Africa. The 37-year-old’s future has been the subject of speculation in recent months, but the former Indian skipper has once again shown why he is considered one of the best in the format.

Also read| IND vs SA: Gautam Gambhir gives standing ovation to Virat Kohli after whirlwind century, warm embrace in dressing room