Virat Kohli’s unexpected retirement from Test cricket has taken the cricketing world by surprise, and according to a report by RevSportz, a new policy introduced by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) may have played a significant role in shaping his decision.
Following India’s 3-1 Test series defeat in Australia earlier this year, the BCCI rolled out a 10-point Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) aimed at reinforcing discipline and enhancing team culture. One of the SOPs limits how long a player’s family can accompany them during overseas tours — a regulation that may have clashed with Kohli’s personal priorities.
The new guideline states that during tours extending beyond 45 days, family members, including spouses and children under 18, can only stay with the player for two weeks. With India’s upcoming five-match Test series in England scheduled from June 20 to August 4, lasting nearly two months, the restriction would have directly impacted Kohli’s time with his family.
Kohli, known for his close bond with his family and especially his young daughter, reportedly expressed his dissatisfaction with this rule to the BCCI. Despite attempts by the board to persuade him to stay, Kohli made his decision final, announcing his retirement via a social media post on Monday morning.
“The BCCI tried to convince him to reconsider his decision, especially since Kohli is one of the biggest names in world cricket and a major face of the game for fans and broadcasters,” the report noted. However, by Sunday evening, it became apparent that the star batter would not reverse his stance.
Although Kohli had played in a Ranji Trophy match after the Australia tour — indicating that retirement was not an immediate consideration — it is believed that he had been mulling over the decision for some time. Sources suggest he informed chief selector Ajit Agarkar about his intentions approximately six weeks ago.
The move has sparked debates among fans and pundits, with many sympathizing with Kohli’s desire to prioritize family amidst a grueling international schedule. As the Indian team prepares for the England tour, Kohli’s absence will be felt deeply — both on the field and in the hearts of cricket fans around the world.
