Yograj Singh urges Kohli and Rohit to reconsider Test retirements

The Indian cricket fraternity has been thrown into a storm of emotion and speculation following the shock retirement announcements of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma from Test cricket. As the two stalwarts step away from the red-ball format just ahead of a new World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, reactions have been pouring in from across the cricketing spectrum. Among the most impassioned responses came from former India pacer Yograj Singh, who has made an emotional and hard-hitting appeal for the duo to reconsider their decisions.

With a high-stakes five-match Test series against England scheduled to begin on June 20, Yograj warned that the absence of both Kohli and Rohit could prove detrimental to Indian cricket. Speaking candidly, he stressed that this is a crucial juncture not only for the national side but for the legacy of two of India’s modern greats.

“This is not the time to walk away.”

In a conversation with The Times of India, Yograj Singh was direct in his criticism and concern. "Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli must return from retirement to save Indian Test cricket. This is not the time to think about themselves – it's about the nation, the fans, and the deep emotions people have for the game,” he said.

Yograj asserted that Kohli still has a decade of cricket left in him and remains one of the fittest athletes in the game. As for Rohit, Yograj offered a personal touch, claiming that with proper guidance, he could return to peak fitness and continue leading from the front.

Yograj didn’t stop at addressing the players. He turned his criticism towards the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), accusing it of mishandling senior cricketers and allowing politics to interfere with crucial decisions.

He referenced past instances involving his son Yuvraj Singh, along with Harbhajan Singh and Virender Sehwag, stating they were dropped from the team without transparent reasoning. “The BCCI must act like a parent – protect and support their players, and not let ego or politics dictate decisions,” he said.

Yograj’s disapproval of how Indian cricket sometimes deals with transitions was palpable. He believes too many legendary careers have ended unceremoniously due to poor communication and undue pressure.

“Don’t make the same mistake”

In a poignant revelation, Yograj disclosed that he had urged Yuvraj Singh to contact Kohli and Sharma, warning them not to repeat what he described as a mistake of early retirement. “I told Yuvi to call Virat and tell him, 'Don’t make the same mistake I did.' One day, frustration will come, but then it will be too late,” Yograj noted.

He strongly believes that stepping down now, especially before such a significant series, will be a decision both men may regret in the coming years. According to him, passion for Test cricket burns differently, and once that door closes, it’s rare to find the opportunity to return.