In a stunning twist, Virat Kohli, on Monday, May 12, through an emotional Instagram message, said he was retiring from Test cricket. The cricket world was stunned as the 36-year-old walked away from the red-ball game just five weeks ahead of India's five-match Test tour of England. This tour also kick-starts the 2025–2027 ICC World Test Championship cycle.

Kohli, the most successful Test batter of his era, ends his Test career with more than 8,700 runs, 29 centuries, and a legacy that raised Indian cricket to the global stage. While India gets ready to live without their beloved No. 4 batter, the question is how to find someone who can replace the huge chasm in the middle order—particularly when challenging away tours are looming.
Some of the names have been on the selectors' radars, yet few are potential and long-term successors.

Also read: WATCH: Indian Army DGMO shares his views on Virat Kohli retirement

Contenders to Replace Kohli in Test Cricket

Sarfaraz Khan

Sarfaraz Khan has been India's most reliable red-ball performer in domestic cricket. After waiting for a long time, he finally made his Test debut against England in early 2024 and registered his first century later in the year against New Zealand. The 27-year-old possesses the temperament and shot selection appropriate for the No. 4 position, and his insatiable appetite for runs makes him a top contender.

KL Rahul

The seasoned KL Rahul has played all formats and positions. With Kohli out, Rahul's versatility and unflappable demeanor in the crease render him a natural choice for the middle order. Not only does he bring experience but also the resource to anchor or quicken according to the situation, something India will desperately require in England.

Rajat Patidar

Rajat Patidar, who impressed of late in India A games and the Ranji league, is another name being considered. At 31 years of age, he is technically gifted, accustomed to playing against quality bowling attacks, and proved he could also deliver under duress—things needed to flourish in long form.

No one can actually substitute Kohli, but India must now construct the next generation using new shoulders capable of shouldering the burden.