Robin Uthappa Wants Virat Kohli Back in Test Cricket
Robin Uthappa urges Virat Kohli to reverse his Test retirement after seeing his intense net session ahead of NZ ODIs.
Former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa has reignited the debate around Virat Kohli’s Test retirement with a viral social media post ahead of the New Zealand ODI series. Sharing a picture of Kohli training intensely in the nets, Uthappa suggested that the former India captain still has the hunger for red-ball cricket. Kohli had retired from Test cricket just before the England series in 2025. Since then, he has remained active only in the ODI format.
Uthappa’s post, captioned “Surely it’s time to rescind his Test retirement,” quickly caught attention among fans and experts alike. He hinted that Kohli’s focus and intensity in training reflected unfinished business in the longest format. The message has fueled speculation about a possible comeback, even though Kohli has made no public indication of reversing his decision. The post has added emotional weight to the build-up of the upcoming ODI series.
Meanwhile, expectations are high from Kohli and Rohit Sharma as India prepare to face a new-look New Zealand side in a three-match ODI series starting Sunday. Both senior batters are in strong form after impressive performances in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. With the T20 World Cup less than a month away, the ODIs offer a crucial platform for momentum and confidence. Kohli and Rohit are expected to be central to India’s plans.
Also Read: Former India Cricketer Manjrekar Says ODI Top-Order Advantage Explains Kohli’s Test Exit
Attention will also be on Indian captain Shubman Gill, who returns to the ODI setup after being dropped from the T20 World Cup squad. His inclusion is likely to impact the batting order, possibly pushing Yashasvi Jaiswal out of the top. Shreyas Iyer is set to reclaim his No. 4 position, while KL Rahul’s role as wicketkeeper-batter keeps Rishabh Pant on the sidelines. India’s XI reflects stability and experience.
New Zealand, despite missing several frontline players, arrive with a competitive squad led by Michael Bracewell. Key absentees include Mitchell Santner, Kane Williamson and Tom Latham, while several young players will be tested in Indian conditions. The series marks the first men’s international at the Baroda Cricket Association Stadium in Kotambi. Even with changes, the Black Caps boast a strong batting core and will look to challenge India on their home turf.
Also Read: Virat Kohli Opts Out of Vijay Hazare Trophy Match Ahead of New Zealand ODIs
