Kapil Dev says Kohli will realise in a few years why he retired from Tests
Kapil Dev expressed regret over Kohli's Test retirement while acknowledging the batter's right to make his own choices about his career.
Kapil Dev said Virat Kohli should have continued playing Test cricket longer and believes the former captain will realise this in a few years. Kohli retired from the format in May 2025 after 123 Tests, finishing as India's fourth-highest run-scorer.
The 1983 World Cup-winning captain said he feels sorry about the decision and that Kohli has the ability to play more Tests. Kapil added that he would not ask Kohli to reverse his retirement, noting that the 37-year-old knows what is best for himself.
Kohli has found form in ODIs since his Test retirement, scoring an unbeaten 139 in the opening match against West Indies. Kapil said people in his position should not advise established players on career decisions.
CricHubb Take
Kapil's reluctance to push for a comeback reflects the modern reality that selectors and legends no longer hold the same sway over senior players' decisions.