Former Indian cricketer Manoj Tiwary has fueled speculation about the reasons behind Virat Kohli’s Test retirement, suggesting that undisclosed factors influenced the decision. After a less impactful performance in the Border Gavaskar Trophy against Australia, Kohli played in a Ranji Trophy match against Railways. His brief innings, where he scored only 6 runs, preceded his surprising announcement of retirement on May 12, 2025. Tiwary expressed his belief that Kohli, known for his physical condition, could have played in the red-ball format for another three to four years. The abrupt retirement surprised Tiwary, given Kohli’s preparation for the England series. Tiwary considered whether Kohli felt unwanted in the team environment. Tiwary anticipates Kohli will not make the information public, due to a shift to a more spiritual focus. Drawing upon his own experience, Tiwary suggested Kohli might not have been pleased with the dynamics within the Indian team. Kohli’s Test career concluded with an impressive body of work: 14 years, 123 matches, 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85, including 30 centuries and seven double centuries. His impact on Indian cricket is undeniable, and his contribution will be remembered.
