Former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has strongly defended Virat Kohli's decision to retire from Test cricket, calling it a deliberate and well-thought-out move that deserves respect. His comments come amid a fresh wave of public speculation about a potential Kohli comeback, fueled by the batting maestro's brilliant century in the first ODI against South Africa in Ranchi.
The Spark: Kohli's Ranchi Masterclass Ignites Comeback Chatter
The discussion around Virat Kohli's Test future was reignited after his match-winning knock of 135 runs off just 120 balls in Ranchi. This 52nd ODI hundred powered India to a 17-run victory and showcased Kohli's enduring class and form. The sublime innings immediately led fans and pundits to wonder if the star batter could reverse his decision to step away from the longest format.
However, Kohli himself sought to quell the rumours at the post-match presentation, clearly stating his intention to continue playing only ODIs. Despite this, the buzz persisted, with some reports even suggesting the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) might consider asking him to reconsider his Test retirement.
Ashwin's Firm Defence: A 'Considered' Decision, Not an Impulse
Addressing the topic on his popular YouTube show 'Ash Ki Baat', Ravichandran Ashwin, a long-time teammate, offered a robust defence of Kohli's choice. He emphasised that retirement at this level is never a spur-of-the-moment call.
"The decisions we make are always well thought out. Retirement is never an instinctive decision," Ashwin stated. "I am confident that if a player like Virat chooses to retire from Tests, it is a decision he has made very deliberately. Nobody acts on instinct alone—we've all crossed that road."
Respect the Choice, Cherish the Moments: Ashwin's Message to Fans
Ashwin acknowledged the natural desire of fans to see a in-form Kohli dominate all formats. He admitted that watching him bat in Ranchi could easily lead to thoughts of 'what if'.
"Of course, as fans, we all want to see Virat Kohli play, and that desire is completely natural. Watching him bat yesterday, fans might feel, 'Virat is in his prime—why aren't we seeing him more?'" Ashwin remarked.
However, he firmly drew a line, urging acceptance and respect for the batter's personal choice, especially with the Indian team navigating a significant transition phase. "But Test cricket is a different challenge, and he has made his choice there. Let's be clear: the decision he has made to step away from that format is deliberate and should be respected," he asserted.
Ashwin added that reversing the retirement would not be the right approach for the team's forward journey. "Going back now would not be the right approach, especially since the team is in a transition phase. It's about moving forward," he explained.
Concluding on a nostalgic note, Ashwin encouraged fans to savour the moments they still have with modern greats. "That said, the days we get to watch Virat and Rohit bat and enjoy their cricket—let's cherish those moments while we can." His words serve as a reminder to appreciate the legends of the game on their own terms, even as the team evolves into its next chapter.
