Indian cricket legend and 1983 World Cup-winning captain Kapil Dev has expressed disappointment over Virat Kohli stepping away from Test cricket. He remarked that the star batter might eventually regret quitting the sport’s longest format.
Speaking to the media, Kapil Dev expressed surprise at Kohli’s decision and emphasized that the former Indian captain still possesses the necessary skills, fitness, and passion to dominate red-ball cricket.
“I feel bad for him” – Kapil Dev
Kapil Dev said, “The way he is playing is impressive. At this age, his fitness is the most crucial factor. If he can stay fit for the next two or three years, I believe he could break every record. I feel bad for him. He retired from Test matches; I don’t know why he did that.”
Kapil Dev noted that while stepping away from the fast-paced T20 format might be understandable, Test cricket and ODIs remain Kohli’s true strengths. He suggested that once the dust settles, Kohli might regret retiring early: “In a few years, he will surely wonder, ‘Why didn’t I play a bit more Test cricket?’ When you have such love and passion for the game, and are capable of managing yourself, why retire?”
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Despite his personal view, the legendary all-rounder acknowledged that the final decision rests entirely with Kohli. Recognizing Kohli’s experience in modern cricket, Kapil stated that outsiders should not comment on personal career decisions: “He knows what is right for him. It is his decision, not ours.”
