India cricket team head coach Gautam Gambhir categorically stated that no one had forced Virat Kohli or Rohit Sharma into retirement from Tests. His remarks have surfaced just a day before India’s squad and the new Test captain is set to be announced via a press conference. While fans were dealing with the IPL 2025 being suspended for a week, Rohit and Virat took everyone by surprise by making back-to-back announcements about their decision to retire from Tests.
Gambhir plays down forcing Ro-Ko to retire
In an interview with News18, Gambhir stated that no one had the right to ask anyone to retire while responding to a question on Virat and Rohit’s call. He dubbed the duo’s call as an individual decision, playing down all reports that they were forced into retirement from Tests.
“I think, when you start the game and when you want to finish it is an individual decision. No one, be it the coach, selector or anyone, has the right to say when to retire or not to. It comes from within. Yes, we have to be without two senior players, two experienced players,” Gambhir said.
Earlier, reports had stated that Rohit was forced to retire after he had conveyed to the selectors that he would only be playing two Tests in England. As far as Kohli is concerned, reports emerged that he had taken the decision despite being offered captaincy. However, contradictory reports soon emerged, where one claimed that the BCCI had asked him to reconsider while another stated that there was no such attempt made at all.
Chance for fresh faces
Gambhir further opined that Rohit and Virat’s retirement gave an opportunity for other players. He went on to cite the case of Bumrah, who missed Champions Trophy 2025, and said that he had said the same thing previously as well.
“Sometimes I believe that it is an opportunity for other players to put their hands up and say I’m ready for it. So, yes it will be tough but there will be other people who will put their hands up,” Gambhir added.
Gambhir dismisses coach, selectors’ hand in Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma’s retirement Inside Sport India.
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