ENG vs IND: As the exciting Tendulkar-Anderson Trophy between India and England nears its end, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor shared his thoughts on Virat Kohli’s absence from the series. He said the country really felt Kohli’s absence, especially during the final Test.
Shashi Tharoor on Virat Kohli’s Absence in Final Test
Shashi Tharoor admitted he hadn’t missed Kohli this much in any match before. With India on the brink of losing the series and England, led by Ollie Pope, closing in on the 374-run target at The Oval, he felt Kohli’s presence could have made a big difference.
“I’ve been missing @imVkohli a few times during this series, but never as much as in this Test match. His grit and intensity, his inspirational presence in the field, not to mention his abundant batting skills, might have led to a different outcome. Is it too late to call him out if retirement? Virat, the nation needs you!” Shashi Tharoor tweeted.
Check out the Tweet:
I’ve been missing @imVkohli a few times during this series, but never as much as in this Test match. His grit and intensity, his inspirational presence in the field, not to mention his abundant batting skills, might have led to a different outcome. Is it too late to call him out…
— Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) August 3, 2025
Virat Kohli Bids Farewell to Test Cricket
On May 12, Virat Kohli, one of India’s greatest cricketing icons and a passionate supporter of Test cricket, announced his retirement from the longest format of the game. He wrapped up his Test career with 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85, including 30 centuries and 31 fifties.
In his heartfelt message, the 36-year-old shared how much Test cricket meant to him, saying the format had taught him important life lessons and remained close to his heart throughout his career.
“It’s been 14 years since I first wore the baggy blue in Test cricket,” Kohli wrote. “Honestly, I never imagined the journey this format would take me on. It’s tested me, shaped me, and taught me lessons I’ll carry for life. There’s something deeply personal about playing in whites. The quiet grind, the long days, the small moments that no one sees but that stay with you forever.”
Meanwhile, in London, England is just moments away from sealing a win in the fifth Test against India. Chasing a target of 374, they were powered by brilliant centuries from Harry Brook and Joe Root, who put together a 195-run stand for the fourth wicket and left the Indian bowlers struggling.
ALSO READ: Joe Root’s Masterclass At The Oval: Complete Breakdown Of His Record-Breaking Century
