Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli must reverse their Test retirements to save Indian cricket: Yograj Singh

The Test retirements of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have caused a lot of drama in the Indian cricketing fraternity, as they announced their decisions to step down ahead of the fresh World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. Meanwhile, former India cricketer Yograj Singh - who is known for his honest and blunt opinions, has urged the duo to reverse their retirements and come back to play in the whites once again.

According to Yograj, the departure of both the senior players from red-ball cricket can cause a lot of problems, especially ahead of a crucial five-match Test series against England which is set to begin on June 20. While Yograj has given an explanation on why Virat and Rohit should return to Test cricket, he also took a jab at the BCCI by bringing up examples of some retired players which also include his son and former India cricketer, Yuvraj Singh.

“Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli must return from retirement to save Indian Test cricket. This is not the time to think about themselves - it's about the nation, the fans, and the deep emotions people have for the game. Virat still has at least ten years of cricket left in him. As for Rohit, if he comes to me, I will make sure he gets back in peak fitness," Yograj was quoted as saying by The Times of India.

“Back in 2011, players like Yuvraj Singh, Harbhajan Singh, and Virender Sehwag were dropped without any clear reason. When Yuvraj retired, I scolded him - I told him not to give in to pressure. He was, and still is, incredibly fit. Cricketers should fight for their place in the team instead of surrendering to external pressures, The BCCI must act like a parent - protect and support their players, not let ego or politics dictate decisions,” he added.

I told Yuvi to call Virat and tell him: Yograj Singh

The former India pacer further revealed in his statement that he told Yuvraj to call and warn the two players to reconsider their decision and claimed that the two will regret deciding to quit Test cricket in the future, and there might not be a chance for them to return.

“I told Yuvi to call Virat and tell him, 'Don’t make the same mistake I did'. I’m certain they’ll (Rohit and Virat) look back and regret it a few years down the line. Because one day, the frustration will inevitably surface — but what will be the point then?" he concluded.