Kohli Rules Out Test Comeback, Confirms Focus on One Format

Indian batting maestro Virat Kohli has addressed speculation about returning to Test cricket, making it clear that he will not be coming back to the longest format. Kohli, alongside fellow veteran Rohit Sharma, has faced criticism over their performances, but recent displays have effectively silenced the sceptics. In the first ODI against South Africa, Kohli produced a stunning century, while Rohit contributed a solid fifty.

In Ranchi, India edged out the Proteas by 17 runs, with Kohli’s 135-run effort earning him the player of the match award. During the ceremony, he tackled questions about a potential Test comeback. At 37, Kohli’s possible return had become a talking point due to India’s struggles in Tests.

Yet Kohli disappointed those hoping for a red-ball return. Calm and decisive, he stated that he would now dedicate himself entirely to one format. When asked by Harsha Bhogle whether he would play only a single format, Kohli replied, “Yes, from now on, I will play only one format.”

Earlier, reports suggested the BCCI might reconsider Kohli’s retirement decision after the national team’s lacklustre performances. However, BCCI secretary Debasish Saikia confirmed that no approach had been made to Kohli regarding a Test return.

After his brilliant ODI century, former England star Kevin Pietersen shared his thoughts on social media, commenting, “If there is even a hint that Virat and Rohit are considering Test cricket again, it should be taken seriously. If the game’s biggest stars want to return, they should be allowed to do so.”

Kohli retired from Test cricket in May 2025, concluding a stellar career of 123 matches, 9,239 runs, 30 centuries, and an average of 46.85. With his T20 international career also behind him, fans are now left to relish his performances in the one-day format, where he continues to shine for India.

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