Virat Kohli has reportedly told the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) that he intends to retire from Test cricket.

According to a by The Indian Express, the 36-year-old batter has communicated his decision privately to the board.

However, the BCCI is not ready to let go of its icon just yet and has urged Kohli to reconsider.

This development comes just days after Rohit Sharma’s announcement to step away from Test cricket. 

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Kohli’s potential exit could leave a massive leadership and experience void in the Indian Test team. With a five-match Test series against England around the corner, the timing of the decision has raised eyebrows.

While Kohli hasn’t made any public statement yet, an official has told The Indian Express that the BCCI has requested him to delay his decision at least until after the England series. So far, there’s been no indication from Kohli whether he will change his mind.

Kohli has had an illustrious Test career. With 9,230 runs in 123 Tests at an average of 46.85, he’s been one of India’s finest in the format.

But recent tours, including the one to Australia, haven’t gone his way. He managed just 95 runs in four innings on that tour, averaging 23.75. After the series, he admitted he was frustrated with himself, especially after being dismissed repeatedly outside the off-stump.

He also reportedly mentioned how time away from his family during long overseas tours has been mentally exhausting.

If Kohli sticks with his decision, India will have to turn to younger players like Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, and Rishabh Pant to lead the charge in red-ball cricket.

Gill is being considered as a potential Test captain going forward, but the dressing room will miss the experience and intensity that Kohli brings.