Reports: Virat Kohli still firm on his Test retirement stance

According to the new reports published, Virat Kohli is very keen to quit the longest format of the game. He has already communicated his ultimate decision to the BCCI selection committee and other officials. 

According to a report published on TOI, Kohli was given further time till the selection meeting next week for the England tour. Notably, Rohit Sharma also announced his retirement from Tests most recently.

"Kohli had informed the selectors two weeks ago about his desire to quit Tests. They were trying to persuade him to play in the Test series against England. However, he is still firm on his stance. The final call will come close to the selection meeting next week," the paper quoted a source as saying.

It’s important to note that Kohli’s form and continuation in the format were questioned by many after the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Many thought that India’s tour of England would be crucial for Kohli on how he responds in away conditions. However, a few days prior to the tour, Kohli had made up his mind.

With Rohit Sharma already making an exit and Virat Kohli looking to quit from the format, the TOI website also stated that the team's frontline pacer Mohammed Shami's place in India's Test playing XI is under scanner.

"As of now, Shami isn't an automatic pick. It's been months since he has come back to international cricket but he has barely been in rhythm. While IPL performances are not usually considered while picking India teams, Shami is struggling to finish his run-up and the ball is not carrying to the wicketkeeper like it used to before his Achilles tendon injury after the 2023 ODI World Cup. He invariably goes back to the dressing room after a short spell for recovery," BCCI sources told the paper.

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