In a shocking development, ex-Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif has let on that the retirement of Test cricket by Virat Kohli was not exactly of his own will. Kaif believes that Kohli wished to continue playing Test cricket but had been advised to leave the scene by the selectors because of the alleged recent loss in form.

Kohli, who amassed 9,906 runs in 123 Tests, had been working on a comeback following a break for personal purposes, such as the birth of his second child. He even played Ranji Trophy games, indicating his desire to return to the red-ball game. His domestic returns were considered by many to be a sign of commitment to the most unadulterated version of the sport. 

But Kaif went on to break the news that Kohli did not even have the backing of the BCCI or the selectors, though he was hoping to make a comeback.  The alleged refusal to consider him for the upcoming Test series was reportedly one of the chief factors behind his surprise retirement announcement.

Lack of Support Raises Eyebrows

Kaif’s comments have stirred debate in the cricketing world, especially when Kohli was just 94 runs away from the 10k run mark in Test cricket. And there was plenty of hope around him making the push to join the club, but the news is suggesting there were decisions behind the scenes that might have cut the innings short. 

Also Read: List of Mumbai players honored with named stands at Wankhede stadium

The former captain, who was in the conversation as the player who represented the renaissance for India's Test format, could now be remembered in some way for leaving on a note that wasn't entirely of his own doing. The absence of support for an icon like him has raised questions on how Indian cricket is managing the twilight years of their legends.