Former Australian captain Michael Clarke believes Virat Kohli may come out of Test retirement if India faces a crushing defeat during their England tour. Clarke suggests that such a setback could tempt Kohli to return, especially if India struggles with batting consistency and leadership. The cricket world now awaits India’s performance to see if this unfolds.
Virat Kohli May Come Out of Test Retirement if India Face Big Defeat: Michael Clarke Predicts Test Comeback
Virat Kohli’s sudden decision to retire from Test cricket last month took the cricketing world by surprise. The 36-year-old legend made the announcement just days before India’s Test squad for the England series was revealed. With 9,230 runs in 123 Tests at an average of 46.85, Kohli left behind a phenomenal red-ball legacy.
But the story may not end there. According to former Australia captain Michael Clarke, Virat Kohli may come out of Test retirement under one specific condition if India are humiliated in the upcoming Test series against England.
Speaking on the Beyond23 podcast, Clarke said:
“If India go to England and get flogged, if they lose the series 5-0 for example, I think the fans will want Virat Kohli to come out of retirement and play Test cricket again. And honestly, I think if he was asked by the captain, selectors and supported by fans, I think he’ll come back.”
Clarke highlighted that Kohli’s passion for Test cricket is still strong and evident. The way he spoke about the format in his farewell message showed how deeply he values red-ball cricket. That’s why, Virat Kohli may come out of Test retirement if the circumstances are right.
“He still loves Test cricket. He sees it as the pinnacle. He’s still good enough to perform at the highest level,” Clarke added.
Despite his retirement, Clarke believes Kohli has more to offer to Indian cricket, especially in tough overseas conditions. While he acknowledged Kohli’s reasons for retiring, he also mentioned that Virat Kohli may come out of Test retirement if India faces a serious challenge and fails to deliver in England.
India’s squad, even without Kohli and Rohit Sharma, remains a strong unit. But if the team fails to live up to expectations, fans and experts alike might push for Kohli’s return.
“India is a passionate cricket country. They want to see their team win. I think they can still beat England. But if they don’t, if they get flogged, I think there’ll be a push for Virat Kohli to come out of Test retirement,” Clarke concluded.
The possibility that Virat Kohli may come out of Test retirement has already sparked discussions across social media and news platforms. His return could bring unmatched experience, leadership, and intensity something India might desperately need in a high-pressure away series.
As the England tour approaches, the focus remains on how the new Indian leadership performs. But in the background, fans and pundits will be watching closely, hoping for a miracle that Virat Kohli may come out of Test retirement and return to where he truly belongs: the Test arena.
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