Ravi Shastri on Virat Kohli: “Test Retirement 2025 Was Mishandled, BCCI Should Have Communicated Better”

Ravi Shastri on Virat Kohli’s Test retirement: Shastri criticizes BCCI’s handling, says better communication was needed and Kohli should’ve been captain again post-Australia.

🏏 Former Coach Ravi Shastri Expresses Regret Over Sudden Retirement of Virat Kohli from Test Cricket

Ravi Shastri on Virat Kohli has sparked major discussion across the cricketing world. In a candid statement, the former India head coach has criticized the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for its poor communication and handling of Virat Kohli’s sudden Test retirement. Shastri also revealed that, given the chance, he would have reinstated Kohli as Test captain after the upcoming 2024–25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT).

🗣️ Ravi Shastri on Virat Kohli: “Sad to See Him Go Like This”

In a heartfelt interaction with Sony Sports, Ravi Shastri on Virat Kohli sounded emotional and frustrated with how things unfolded:

“Virat has announced his retirement from Test matches, which is sad. He’s a great player — not just by stats, but by presence and personality. The way he led India overseas, especially at Lord’s, was just magical. I’m proud to have been part of that journey.”

He continued:

“I feel sad that he’s gone the way he has — suddenly. I think it could have been handled better, maybe with more communication. If I had anything to do with it, I would’ve made him captain straight after Australia.”

🧠 Kohli’s Emotional State: “Mentally Fried”

Ravi Shastri on Virat Kohli also disclosed a personal conversation he had with the ex-captain prior to his retirement announcement. Kohli had privately shared that he was “mentally fried”, reflecting emotional burnout after years of high-pressure cricket.

Their close coach-captain bond — forged between 2017 and 2021 — is well known, making Shastri’s disappointment in the process even more impactful.

👑 Virat Kohli’s Legendary Test Career: A Quick Look

As per the analysis of Ravi Shastri on Virat Kohli, the cricketer’s retirement marks the end of an era. Here are the major highlights of Kohli’s red-ball legacy:

• 🧢 Matches: 123 Tests
• 🏏 Runs: 9,230
• 💯 Centuries: 30
• 🧭 Captaincy Record: Led in 68 Tests, won 40 — India’s most successful Test captain

Kohli was known for his aggressive leadership, unmatched fitness, and a relentless hunger for excellence — especially in overseas conditions.

🧭 India in Post-Kohli Era: Shubman Gill Takes Over

With Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma both stepping down from Test cricket, a new era begins for India. Shubman Gill will captain the national Test side for the first time in the upcoming England series starting June 20, 2025.

The transition, though exciting, is also seen as abrupt — something Ravi Shastri on Virat Kohli repeatedly criticizes in his statements.

🔗 Social Buzz: Shastri’s Comments Go Viral

Multiple clips and quotes of Ravi Shastri on Virat Kohli have gone viral across social media platforms:

• View Shastri’s Statement on X
• Ravi Shastri reveals his captaincy plans
• “Could’ve Been Handled Better” – Full Video

Fans are divided — while some echo Shastri’s concerns, others believe it was Kohli’s personal decision.

🔍 Expert Insight: Why Ravi Shastri on Virat Kohli Matters

This is not just another opinion — Ravi Shastri on Virat Kohli carries weight because of the duo’s shared journey. They redefined India’s Test culture, emphasized fitness, and transformed the team into a fearless unit, especially in challenging overseas tours.

Shastri’s remarks expose deeper issues around internal communication within the BCCI — and raise an important question: Are legends like Kohli given the farewell they deserve?

📌 Conclusion: The Legacy Continues, But the Ending Deserved More

The powerful words of Ravi Shastri on Virat Kohli have reignited debate about how Indian cricket handles transitions of its legends. Kohli may have retired, but his legacy as a fierce competitor, passionate leader, and ambassador for Test cricket lives on.

As India steps into a new era, Shastri’s reflection serves as a reminder — retirement decisions need not only respect but also thoughtful communication.

👉 For further updates on this developing story, stay tuned to TODAY SCOOP NEWS – your trusted destination for the latest and verified cricket headlines.