In May 2025, Virat Kohli's sudden exit from Test matches caused a major shock to Indian cricket fans. Kohli announced his withdrawal from this format just five days after Rohit Sharma did. Despite more than a year and a half passing since this event, debates about the real reasons behind such a sudden decision continue.
Former Indian player Vasim Zafar attracted attention from fans with his outspoken statement on the matter. Discussing the situation on his YouTube channel, Zafar suggested that Virat Kohli might have been dissatisfied with how the entire process of his exit from Test cricket was managed. He noted that the treatment of Virat seemed to have caused him some irritation.
Zafar emphasized that players like Virat attract a large number of viewers due to their popularity on the field. He also stated that Kohli could have played many more matches in the Test format. However, until Virat speaks himself, the true picture will remain unknown. It was known that at the time of his departure, he was preparing for a trip to England.
Vasim Zafar made these remarks in the context of reviewing the tenure of former chief selector Ajit Agarkar. Although Zafar highly praised India's success in white-ball formats during Agarkar's tenure, he expressed strong disagreement with the methods of managing senior players.
It is worth noting that Rohit Sharma announced his withdrawal from Test matches only five days before Kohli, specifically on May 7, 2025. Before the last Test in the Australian tour, Rohit hinted that he did not plan to leave the sport, but his decision several months later raised many questions.
Delhi coach Sarandeep Singh previously revealed that Kohli was actively preparing for the trip to England during the Ranji Trophy tournament, aiming to score three or four centuries there. In contrast, Agarkar claimed that Virat himself expressed a desire to retire in early April.