Virat Kohli’s Test Retirement: Family Time vs. BCCI’s Tough Policies
In April, Virat Kohli told Agarkar about his test retirement; the BCCI’s family policy is deemed inadequate, according to the report.
“Virat Kohli’s Shocking Test Retirement: Family Time vs. BCCI’s Tough Policies
According to reports, Virat Kohli told a senior BCCI official and head selector Ajit Agarkar that he planned to retire from Test cricket as early as April. In an Instagram post on Monday, Kohli formally announced the end of his red-ball career after securing the renowned No. 4 position in India’s Test batting order following Sachin Tendulkar’s retirement. The 36-year-old stated that one of the main reasons he left his most beloved format was to spend more time with his family.
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With Rohit Sharma also resigning from Test duty, Kohli’s move has put the team in a transitional position just before India’s five-match Test series against England begins on June 20. When Kohli played for Delhi against Railways in the Ranji Trophy earlier this year, many thought he was still dedicated to the longest format and was getting ready for the England tour.
But many were caught off guard by his abrupt statement, which left admirers wondering why he left. According to The Indian Express, following India’s disappointing performance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the BCCI introduced a strict 10-point framework outlining new rules related to discipline and travel logistics. One of these was a cap on how long family members may travel with athletes on international tours. Family presence was limited to 14 days if a tour lasted longer than 1.5 months.
According to reports, Kohli didn’t like this policy because he wanted to put his family time first. He had made it apparent to Agarkar and the BCCI representative in April that he was motivated by the desire to spend more time with his loved ones. Kohli persisted even after the BCCI advised him to take his time and think things through. On May 7, he apparently contacted the board once more to restate his intention to retire from Test cricket.https://www.sportskeeda.com/
Introduction
On May 12, 2025, Virat Kohli, one of India’s most celebrated cricketers, announced his retirement from Test cricket. This decision came as a surprise to many, especially given his recent participation in domestic cricket and the upcoming England tour. Reports suggest that Kohli had informed chief selector Ajit Agarkar and a senior BCCI official of his intentions as early as April. His decision has sparked discussions about the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) family travel policy, which some believe may have influenced his choice.Reuters+1Indiatimes+1
Kohli’s Test Career: A Glorious Journey
Virat Kohli made his Test debut in 2011 and quickly established himself as a key player in the Indian team. Over the years, he amassed over 9,200 runs in 123 Tests, including 30 centuries, with an average of 46.85. He served as India’s Test captain from 2014 to 2022, leading the team to 40 wins in 68 matches, the most by any Indian skipper. Under his leadership, India reached two World Test Championship finals. Kohli’s contributions were instrumental in elevating India’s status in world cricket. Indiatimes+1Reuters+1Reuters
The BCCI’s Family Travel Policy
In early 2025, following India’s disappointing performance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the BCCI introduced a stringent 10-point policy aimed at promoting discipline and unity within the team. A significant aspect of this policy was the family travel restriction. According to the new guidelines, players on overseas tours lasting more than 45 days could have their partners and children join them for a single visit of up to two weeks. The BCCI would cover shared accommodation expenses during this period; however, all other costs would be borne by the player. Any deviations from this policy required approval from the coach, captain, and general manager of operations. Hindustan TimesIndia Today+4India Today+4Hindustan Times+4India Today+1India Today+1
Kohli’s Concerns
Virat Kohli has been vocal about his concerns regarding the BCCI’s family travel policy. During the Champions Trophy, he expressed that the presence of families on tours helps players maintain a sense of normalcy and responsibility. He stated, “I don’t want to go to my room and just sit alone and sulk. I want to be able to be normal.” Hindustan Times+1India Today+1India Today+3India Today+3Hindustan Times+3Hindustan Times+1India Today+1
Furthermore, Kohli criticized the policy for placing blame on families for players’ performances. He remarked, “It’s very difficult to explain to people how grounding it is to just come back to your family every time you have something which is intense.” Hindustan Times+1India Today+1India Today+1Hindustan Times+1
BCCI’s Response
In response to Kohli’s criticism, BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia reaffirmed that the family travel policy would remain unchanged. He emphasized that the policy had been in place for decades and was aimed at ensuring team cohesion and discipline. Saikia also mentioned that while the policy was strict, provisions for relaxation under special circumstances were available. Hindustan Times+1India Today+1India Today
The Impact on Kohli’s Decision
While Kohli did not explicitly state that the family travel policy influenced his decision to retire from Test cricket, his concerns about the policy suggest that it may have played a role. The restriction on family presence during long tours could have affected his well-being and performance, leading him to prioritize his personal life over his cricketing commitments.India Today
Conclusion
Virat Kohli’s retirement from Test cricket marks the end of an era in Indian cricket. While his decision was influenced by various factors, the BCCI’s family travel policy appears to have been a significant consideration. As the cricketing world bids farewell to one of its greatest players, it also reflects on the balance between professional commitments and personal well-being.
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