As India gears up for what will undoubtedly be their toughest tour in a while, a Test series against England in June 2025, the biggest question on the fans' minds has been, what if? What if Virat Kohli returns to captain for a test match? Since Rohit Sharma stepped down, it has caused speculation about Kohli reentering the lineup in some way, shape, or form, even for that one last hurrah.

Kohli, who last captained the Test side in 2022 and is viewed as one of the most successful Test captains of all time, has not only the experience but still enough respect in the dressing room. He is likely perceived as a central figure in Indian cricket, especially now given the injury concerns and lots of reshuffling to the leadership group. Kohli is dynamic, aggressive, and tactical, as well as willing to win, but most importantly, he would provide a strong sense of stability during a reshuffling period, and that probably dovetails to his important experience and cricket acumen from his playing days, even if it may have dipped from a Test batting perspective. 

Some insiders even suggested that the BCCI might turn to Kohli for one last stint to bridge the leadership gap. While you could potentially make a case for Kohli even if it was offered only for one series, since there are so many unknowns with travelling to England and the lack of experience in the group, this would have made some sense, as it would have worked in everyone's favor. However, as the speculation closed, It still left with the selection committee's vision. 

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In the end, the selectors chose to look forward instead of back. The BCCI will likely announce that a younger player - probably Shubman Gill - will be appointed the next Test captain. Gill, who has demonstrated maturity beyond his years, impressed with the bat, but most importantly, with his own leadership in the IPL and as a vice-captain in white-ball cricket. 

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The decision shows that there is a cultural shift for Indian cricket to construct a team for the future. There is no doubt - with Rohit Sharma (and Ravichandran Ashwin) officially retired and Jasprit Bumrah's heavy workload, the BCCI sees it as a necessity to build leaders for the long haul. Kohli - who will be relied upon for his experience - clearly will not lead the Indian team again. 

An announcement on the team will come soon - the start of a new chapter: one where youth, utility, and strategic foresight can shine through.