Yograj Singh requests Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma to change retirement decision, says ‘this is not the time…’
New Delhi: Former India cricketer Yograj Singh, urged Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to reconsider their recent Test cricket retirements. He believes their absence significantly weakens India’s upcoming five-match Test series against England, starting June 20th, particularly given the loss of their most experienced batsmen. Singh, who has coached several current players, including his son Yuvraj Singh, also suggested that Kohli’s career still has considerable potential.
“Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli must return from retirement to save Indian Test cricket. This is not the time to think about themselves – it’s about the nation, the fans, and the deep emotions people have for the game. Virat still has at least ten years of cricket left in him. As for Rohit, if he comes to me, I will make sure he gets back in peak fitness,” Yograj told IANS on Tuesday.
The former cricketer advocated for the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to provide greater support to players facing significant challenges, thereby preventing them from succumbing to pressure.
“Back in 2011, players like Yuvraj Singh, Harbhajan Singh, and Virender Sehwag were dropped without any clear reason. When Yuvraj retired, I scolded him – I told him not to give in to pressure. He was, and still is, incredibly fit. Cricketers should fight for their place in the team instead of surrendering to external pressures.
“The BCCI must act like a parent – protect and support their players, not let ego or politics dictate decisions,” he added.
Yograj Singh urged his son, Yuvraj Singh, to persuade Virat Kohli against retiring from Test cricket, expressing concern that Kohli might later regret the decision.
“I told Yuvi to call Virat and tell him, ‘Don’t make the same mistake I did’. I’m certain they’ll (Rohit and Virat) look back and regret it a few years down the line. Because one day, the frustration will inevitably surface — but what will be the point then?’
Virat Kohli concluded his Test career with 9,230 runs across 123 matches, averaging 46.85, and accumulating 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries. Rohit Sharma also retired from Test cricket, having scored 4,301 runs in 67 matches, with an average of 40.57, including 12 centuries and 18 half-centuries.
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