Virat Kohli announced his retirement only a few hours ago through his Instagram account. While reports had been swirling about his possible retirement, sources have confirmed that the retirement came as a surprise to even the selection committee. Sources have revealed that while the selection committee was expecting something to happen, they were still hoping against hope for a u-turn with the BCCI trying to persuade Kohli to travel to England.
Top sources say that the selectors are shocked, and the retirement will now mean the selectors have to rethink the team selection plans for the upcoming England Test series. Who bats at 4? Will they look back or not? Will Rahane or Pujara come back into the scheme of things?
Sources say that this will now be the greatest challenge for the Ajit Agarkar led selection committee—to find a replacement at number 4 for the Test team. While they know that the void can’t be filled overnight, they also know that they need to field a competitive side in England.
Finally, sources have also confirmed that talks will likely take place soon to figure out the way ahead with the team announcement just about a week and a half away.