Congress MP Shashi Tharoor felt the lack of Virat Kohli in the fifth and final match of the ongoing Test series between India and England amidst the possibility of India’s defeat. He has appealed to Virat to return to Test cricket through a passionate post on social media.
Shashi Tharoor wrote in his post, “I was missing Virat Kohli on many occasions of this series, but most in this Test match. His courage and passion, his inspirational appearance and batting skills on the field could have changed the result. Can he still be called from retirement? Virat, the country needs you!”
Virat Kohli retired from Test cricket in May
On 12 May 2025, Virat Kohli announced retirement from Test cricket. He wrote in an emotional post on Instagram: “Playing in this format has been very personal for me. Long hard work, countless hours, and those short moments that no one sees, but who live together throughout their life.” Koheli further wrote, now that I am going away from this format, it is not easy, but it seems right. I gave it everything, and it returned me more than that. I am going with a grateful heart. At the end of his post, he wrote #269, which reflects his test cap number. He was the 269th player to play Test for India.
England towards victory, India missed a big chance
England are ahead 2–1 in the final Test being played at the Oval and are seen in a position to win the match, while one of his leading all-rounder Chris Woakes is not playing due to injury. In the first Test, England had achieved the target of 371 runs and in the final Test too, it is moving towards a great run-day. India lost an important opportunity when Mohammad Siraj caught the catch of Harry Brook, but the catch turned into 6 runs instead of the wicket due to setting foot on the boundary cushion.
Virat’s return is being demanded from all over the country
Since the retirement of Virat Kohli, cricket lovers and experts from all over the country have been demanding his return. This appeal of Shashi Tharoor gives voice to the feelings of all those who want to see Virat again in the white jersey.